The community of Malakota in Zambia is home to three Care Points: Malakota A, B and C, which are all supported by UK partners and donations.
Hands at Work first began serving in this vast community at what is now Malakota A. Over time, it became clear that some children and Care Workers were walking long distances to attend. In response, a second Care Point, Malakota B, was established, closer to where many families lived. Later, as vulnerability shifted within the wider community, a third Care Point, Malakota C, was opened in another area to ensure more children could receive care and support.
Malakota A and B operate with their own Care Workers and leadership teams, separate from Malakota C.
Moving towards graduation: Malakota A and B
The Malakota A and B Care Points are now moving towards graduation, likely taking place at the end of 2026 or during 2027. Graduation is when a Care Point is equipped and confident to continue supporting and caring for its children sustainably through local leadership and the local church, and the community is showing development – getting on that “first rung of the ladder”.
A part of graduating well is leaving the community with strong infrastructure, enabling the local church to continue supporting children and families where needed, or as an asset for the community to repurpose over time. The aim is to leave lasting assets that strengthen the whole community beyond Hands at Work’s direct involvement.
Several Community Investment Projects have recently taken place at Malakota A and B, including the installation of boreholes to provide reliable access to clean water, and strengthening the Life Centre buildings.
The borehole at Malakota B presented particular challenges. After two unsuccessful attempts, water was finally found on the third search at the end of last year – a moment of great celebration and gratitude.
Boreholes are critical for communities, providing not only safe drinking water and water for household use but also enabling families to grow crops and improve food security.
The Life Centre building at Malakota B has also recently been completed. This provides children with a safe place to gather, sheltering them from both sun and rain, where they can eat together, play and spend time in community.
Looking ahead: Malakota C
Malakota C, the newest of the three Care Points, will continue operating for the foreseeable future. Recently, the number of children supported there has increased from 75 to 100, reflecting the ongoing need within that area of the community.
You can read more about Malakota A and B here and Malakota C here.
If you would like to support Community Investment Projects like these across Africa, you can donate here.