Nyamphande Orphanage and Community School started in 1996, approximately 125 kilometers east of Lusaka, Zambia in Africa. Nyamphande serves the educational needs of nearly 600 children (10 % of whom have lost both parents to HIV/AIDS) as well as basic medical assistance for over 6,000 people. Originally intended to cater to the medical needs of students at Nyamphande Orphanage, the on-site Nyamphande Rural House Centre soon became a primary and essential medical resource for impoverished rural families living in the area. Local villagers, children, and other community members have relied on the Centre for treatment and management of everything from common colds and ailments to treatment for HIV/AIDS and/or TB.
The building that has served the community was in desperate need of a new roof. Its thatched roof was no longer safe or sanitary, and the clinic has been closed by government officials until it was replaced. With the clinic closed, the Zambian government was not able to send nurses and doctors to minister to the community. With cholera and malaria an ever-present threat, the outbreak of disease and the lack of sufficient medical assistance could spell disaster for an entire community already at risk in this poverty-stricken region.
Spearheaded by Summer Jackman and Amy Campbell, the Pocatello Rotary Club received a district grant to sponsor a new roof for the clinic. They've had a strong working relationship with the Rotary Club of Maluba, to which the Nyamphande Headmaster, John Mambo, is a member and Past President. The Maluba Club was instrumental in helping provide much-needed volunteer efforts that made this project a success. They will also work to identify other specific needs in the community related to health care, education, and agricultural development from which our two clubs aim to join forces for a global grant in the near future. We intend to channel funds through the Maluba club to ensure that money is disbursed and records kept in accordance with Rotary standards.
