Malawi - The Work Begins

Over the last couple of weeks so much has happened. If you’ve been praying for something and then they are finally answered it is easy to see how God has always had a plan in your life, pitfalls and all. My miracle came about two weeks ago in the arrival of Robert and John Boyle. These Aussies from Victoria have been involved in the project for over a year and returning for their 3rd visit to continue work on the ORBUS orphanage construction project. In what can only be put down to God’s perfect timing we have embarked to do as much work on the project while we are here.

The project has suffered many setbacks not just from the weather but also poor management. So the Boyles are here for over 2 weeks to manage and supervise the construction and get as much done in that time as possible. They have hired a bulldozer and backhoe and so many things are happening; it’s a whirlwind of activity that is a testimony of God’s grace and provision. The most important goals are: get the water mains connected, sewer pipes and sewer pit constructed, roof installed for one of the buildings, clear out the land and plant maize, an orchard and plus lots more. The biggest blessing has been from the water pump installed about a month ago and it’s incredible how just one pump benefits the entire community. One man has been farming the land for years and now he has a water source mere metres away, you can imagine how grateful he is.



With the sun rising over the distant mountains the work site is a dazzling scene. The orphanage is seen nestled between fields of green, yellow and brown with mothers and children wearing their colourful array of bright clothing. In the morning the women work away carrying buckets of water on their head some with a babe strapped across their back. Malawi men are up and about digging or building and the average labourer gets 350 kwacha a day or $2.50 Australian, most don’t even wear shoes. The orphanage is a generous project from the Presbyterian church of Australia. It is hoped that when it is finished it will be self sufficient and the locals will take pride and care in the building and use it for the care of orphans and vulnerable children. To experience this project has been truly humbling.



The Boyle’s head back today after a very productive couple of weeks. Blessings is a good Christ-like Malawian (The guy in the marines shirt) that has been very helpful on the project. Between him and me we hope to wrap up the remaining tasks in the next few weeks. Prayer is always appreciated, especially for the people of this country.