Kathy and I had no idea when we founded WOW 25 years ago that one day we’d be engaged with two of the five most needy counties in Sub Saharan Africa. Zambia and Malawi are in crisis with severe electricity and food shortages.
WOW has a significant footprint in both countries where we’re involved in the care of thousands of widows, orphans, and others at risk of starvation and/ or death from disease and opportunistic infections. With 2-3 hours of electricity a day, and sometimes none for a couple of days at a time Zambia especially is suffering. Malawi at least has hydro. Added to that is the doubling of food costs because of drought and crop failure. There is sorrow on every hand. Indeed the WHO says that 21 million children are potential victims of famine. The UN says, “Southern Africa is enduring its worst hunger crisis in decades due to El Niño.”
Rather than “curse the darkness” WOW continues to faithfully “light a candle”. It is daunting for sure but the faithfulness of compassionate donors is stemming the tide of sorrow for thousands.
We are so grateful for these friends who see their support as “the hands and feet of Jesus”. Together we’re ministering hope in a very dark place.
