In Eswatini, Southern Africa, 17-year-old Nolwazi and his six younger siblings tragically lost their parents in a car crash. Left alone, Nolwazi had a heavy responsibility, becoming a carer for his siblings.
“I was at school when the accident happened. We couldn’t believe it.” says Nolwazi.
For children who have lost their parents, having to move away from home, friends, and family can be an additional burden.
Taking on the parental role
Sibling relationships are important, particularly for children who have lost their parents, and Nolwazi and his siblings wanted to grow up together.
But being an adult carer is a big responsibility for a 17-year-old. “I am still a child. It is no easy task,” he says.
“Even when I’m tired, I have to be strong, so my siblings can also be strong.” Nolwazi goes to school himself, so opportunities to earn money for the family are scarce.
However, the love between the siblings is strong and Nolwazi is resourceful. There are many daily chores, but everyone helps out, in addition to doing homework. The family is now thriving, thanks to support from SOS Children’s Villages Eswatini, which provides food, education and healthcare.
They also have a permanent family adviser, who undertakes regular homes visits and knows the children and their situation well.
Nolwazi asserts, “Without SOS Children’s Villages, we wouldn’t have managed.”
Long-term support
SOS Children’s Villages’ Family Programme provides support based on the needs of each family so they can provide for themselves long term.
For this family, the goal is for all the children to grow up to become independent adults, ensuring they’re self-sufficient, educated, and supported to achieve success.
Nolwazi has ambitions to become a doctor. He says, “If I can save people, I can help other children not lose their parents.”
With SOS Children’s Villages’ long-term support, Nolwazi’s dreams can one day become a reality.