Hands at Work in Africa is walking alongside a new community in Eswatini which it hopes to formally support, following more than a year of relationship building with local leaders and community members.
In March, Hands at Work met with more than 50 community members and local stakeholders in the area of Tikhuba, to share about their realities, challenges and hopes for the future. The purpose of the meeting was to listen to the community’s experiences and expectations, whilst offering a clear understanding of Hands at Work and how we walk alongside communities.
Challenges in the community that were raised included limited access to water, poor road conditions, long distances to school, lack of employment opportunities, and the absence of a preschool.
Levy, Hands at Work leader, shared the Hands at Work vision through the question, “What do you have in your hands?” – encouraging the community to begin with the resources and strengths they already have, and to trust God to bless the work of their hands. Levy shared examples from communities in Zambia and Malawi which illustrated how transformation can grow when communities begin with what they already have. Starting a preschool was identified as a practical first step, demonstrating local ownership and commitment.
As the journey with this community develops, the new Care Point is likely to be supported by the UK, and we will be looking for a partner to walk alongside the children, Caregivers and Care Workers. We will share more as the journey continues but in the meantime please join us in praying for Tikhuba.