Ian's Tanzania Blog: Mission to The Homeless Children

When in Africa, IBM CSC members attempt to make non-business visits to needy organizations. Today we spend the full day at a an orphanage started in the mid 1990's just outside of Morogoro. It is well known that may orphaned children result after both parents die of AIDS a disease that is much better identified and treated now in Africa. One of the older kids told us he came 3 years ago when his sick father took him here and knowing he was dying asked that they care for him. About 52 children from university age to 7. Quite a family.

The children sang 3 songs, one about love, one about culture and the last one I believe they wrote themselves about their situation... a tribute to orphans with the message being that everyone should be cared about, loved, helpful to one another and part of the community.

We all took along things for the kids... I brought along a number of coloring books and packs of pencil caryons. View from overhead... I actually started out with one little guy in the green shirt and ended up with a free for all.

Ross and Aldrey showing the kids where we were all from... this is always fun. The little girl under Petra's right arm was arm in arm, hand in hand for much of the day. We had a great game of frisbee.. a bit tough to share that but the kids were new to it and liked the red and white.

Our team sponsored the lunch. As investors we visited the kitchen out back... incredible.... there is a place with dead fall trees not to far away where they get wood as the fuel supply. I love the picture with the chicken looking at the chicken pieces before it goes into the pot... and ends up on our plate! Full supply chain right in front of your eyes.