child headed households...

Was out in various Early Childhood Centres this afternoon and spotted this young girl on the road with a baby on the back off to collect water in her basin. Just as I was about to snap she turned around...........

I have no idea if this child is part of a child headed household as I did not talk with her but due to the HIV AIDS pandemic we have many child headed households in Malawi, where the oldest child is left to care for siblings after the death of parents. It is very difficult for the elder child as often they have to drop out of school to tend the garden and try and find food for the younger children. Sometimes relatives will help, sometimes they will not. They usually have no childhood because they have to face up to adult responsibilities very quickly. Of course some organisations are working with these children but usually only for a limited period of time!

Had a busy busy day and its time to chill out this evening! Hope you all had a good day!!