ZAMBIA: CCCZ Helps Re-integrate a 6-Year-Old Boy into Family
One of the reintegrated boys with the grandmother
Mwenya Mukuka
Losing the mother few hours after birth, now 6 years, Stephen Bwacha has been reintegrated with his maternal grandmother after spending 6 years in a child care facility, thanks to Catholic Care for Children in Zambia (CCCZ).
Stephen was admitted to St. Martins Children’s Home in Lufwanyama District, Ndola Diocese, when he was few hours old because her mother died at delivery.
Catholic Care for Children in Zambia (CCCZ) project Coordinator Sr. Cecilia Nakambo who has confirmed the development.
“Stephen was admitted into the facility when he was few hours old because her mother died at delivery. The return of Steve back to her family was long awaited by her grandmother who from the start didn’t want to be separated but due to lack of proper income Stephen was taken into the facility,” she said.
Stephen’s grandmother now makes her livelihood from making and selling foodstuffs such as Chikanda and Maheu beverage and farming from a rented piece of land and fish mongering.
Sr. Nakambo has disclosed that the Child Care facility still supports Stephen with school needs and packed food every day.
There is also a recommendation that Steve visits his friends at the facility at least once a month.
Other re-integrated children are Joseph Mulenga, 8 and Given Simutenda, 7.
Given got admitted into the child care facility because her mother is mentally ill. The young sister of his grandmother is now taking care of him.
Joseph, was reunified with the grandmother in November 2019 and now he is staying with the auntie so that he can continue with his education.
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