Dear Kudimba Friends
We’re happy to share our latest updates after a very busy few months, with many friends and supporters visiting. Among them, the Belgian circus team from Circolito Circus Atelier, who created unforgettable memories at Kudimba. Our very first circus project in Kudimba was an overwhelming success.
Circolito and the Kuwala Project
Here’s a summary of how the Circolito team described their adventure:
“…In early July, we set off for Kudimba Foundation, a daycare centre for vulnerable children and young people with special needs in Lifuwu, Malawi. Our goal: to provide alternative therapy through circus workshops, challenging Kudimba participants both physically and emotionally. The project was named ‘Kuwala’ which means ‘ to shine’ in the local language. And shine they did!
From the very first moment, the children were fascinated. For many, it was the first time they’d ever seen a performance. Over two and a half weeks, they tried plate-spinning, trampolining, juggling, slackline and much more. Each activity was adapted so that every child – no matter their age, ability, or disability – could take part.
The circus wasn’t just fun, it built confidence, teamwork and joy. Even more special, Kudimba staff received training so that they can guide the circus activities and they can continue long after the visitors have left.
The final performance was breathtaking: children who had never seen a circus show before proudly performed one themselves, with family and friends cheering…
…We are so proud of what the children achieved in such a short time – from unicycling and juggling to trapeze! We left the circus equipment in Kudimba and know the story is only just beginning. Kudimba is a beautiful place filled with love. The smiles and laughter we shared will stay with us forever…”
Looking ahead, we are thrilled that this adventure will continue. Plans are already underway for the next Kuwala Circus Project and the goals are ambitious. Besides the circus activities we also hope to achieve a sustainable impact and global connection with our project. More news about this will follow in the updates of the coming year.
1.The Kuwala Team
2.Circus
3.Jaffary
Peter’s story
In our last newsletter, we shared Peter’s story. Peter is a 13-year-old boy with autism and a severe learning disability, who struggled at our day centre and whose family faced extreme poverty.
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our Kudimba friends, Peter and his family now live in a safe, newly renovated home with a small solar system, cooking supplies, food and other essentials. For the very first time, they have keys to their own door, a profound step towards security and independence.
The family is deeply grateful and so are we. This new chapter is life-changing.
Thank you to the people who made it possible.
Peter
Peter’s house before renovations
Peter’s house after renovations
Isaac is back!
We are overjoyed to welcome Isaac back to Kudimba. Isaac has just turned 9 and his family had to move away a while ago due to financial struggles.
Happy Isaac
Isaac enjoyed the circus.
Tailor Frackson
With support from our Kudimba friends, his father Frackson, who is a gifted tailor, was able to grow his small business. Our visitors loved his handmade clothes and our visiting circus artists even promoted his work abroad, raising funds for the next circus project and generating income for the family at the same time.
Now, Isaac and his family are back in Lifuwu. He is thriving at Kudimba, laughing, playing and even enjoying circus activities!
Welcome Hamida!
On September 1st, our dear staff member Matilda welcomed her beautiful baby girl, Hamida – her third child.
We are delighted for her and her growing family
Matilda & her beautiful baby girl Hamida
Cassim’s Orthopaedic surgery
Our beloved participant Cassim recently underwent orthopaedic surgery. He is still recovering at home and we look forward to the day he returns to Kudimba, walking stronger than ever.
Sandulika
After some slower months, our work at Sandulika – our new project – is in full swing again.
We overcame challenges with the interlocking brick machine and production is running smoothly now.
These interlocking bricks are eco-friendly, don’t require wood-fired baking and lock into place without cement – saving forests and offering a strong, sustainable alternative to traditional bricks.
Interlocking bricks at Sandulika
Bunting International School Brussels
The International School of Brussels
The International School of Brussels has been connected to our project for many years and once again amazed us with their commitment.
Alongside their annual fundraiser, students created colourful personalised bunting that now decorates our communal kitchen block.
Thank you to all students and teachers for your creativity and generosity.
It has been a busy few months filled with visits, hard work and lots of fun.
Kudimba and Sandulika continue to grow, reaching more children, families and the wider community than we ever dreamed possible.
We are grateful for the loyalty, generosity and trust of our friends and supporters.
None of this could happen without you.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Kudimba Team