The SOS Children’s Village has applauded the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office for the support they have extended to the village.
This was shared by the Phindile Nhleko-Makama, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, during the official launch of the foster care campaign.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today at this very important event, the launch of our national foster care campaign in partnership with the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office,” declared Makama.
Addressing attendees at the event, Nhleko-Makama emphasized the profound significance of this initiative, not merely as a new project but as a transformative movement with the potential to reshape the lives of countless vulnerable children across Eswatini.
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When reflecting on the realities facing many children in the country, Nhleko-Makama called attention to the harsh conditions of abandonment, neglect, and the loss of parental care that many young ones endure.
“These children are our children,” she said, urging the nation to remember that they deserve more than just survival, they deserve love, stability, and the opportunity to thrive.
Nhleko-Makama passionately highlighted the role foster care can play in offering a nurturing environment where children can heal, grow, and reach their full potential.
She emphasized that through fostering, these children, who may have faced trauma and uncertainty, could rediscover their self-worth and become the leaders of tomorrow.
At the heart of the campaign is a call to action directed at families and individuals across the country. Nhleko-Makama encouraged them to open their hearts and homes to children in need, stressing that becoming a foster parent has the power to make a world of difference.
“Foster care is not just about providing a roof over a child’s head; it is about creating a safe and loving environment where they can flourish.
It is about being a guiding light in their darkest moments,” she explained. Every child placed in a loving foster home, Nhleko-Makama noted, is given the chance to dream, to learn, and to grow into a confident and capable individual.
While acknowledging the emotional and psychological complexities involved in fostering, Nhleko-Makama also spoke to the profound rewards that come with the role.
“The joy of seeing a child smile, the pride in their achievements, and the knowledge that you have played a part in their healing process are experiences that will enrich your life beyond measure,” she said, highlighting the deep fulfillment that foster parents can experience.
The national director also took the opportunity to express her gratitude to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office for its huge commitment to the welfare of children.
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She noted that the government’s support is instrumental in making foster care a viable and respected option for families throughout Eswatini.
“Together, we can create a culture that values and uplifts our children, ensuring that they are not defined by their circumstances but empowered by the love and support they receive,” Nhleko-Makama added.
As the campaign officially begins, Nhleko-Makama urged the public to embrace the message of fostering hope, love, and resilience in the lives of vulnerable children.
“Let us work together to build a brighter future for our children. Let us foster hope, love, and resilience in the lives of those who need it most.
Together, we can make a difference—one child at a time,” she concluded, reminding everyone that the children of Eswatini are the future, “Bantfwabentfu ba likusasa.”
