Have you ever wondered what Orant means? It’s not just a funny word - it has a deeper meaning that we’re telling you about this week in the blog. Read more about it here and learn where we got our name and why we are grateful for you, our readers, donors, and supporters, this week and always.
5 Reasons to Give Globally in 2020
If you are anything like us, 2020 has challenged your heart and mind. The pandemic has incited global anxiety, fear, and despair. At Orant Charities Africa, we still practice hope. Our faith in the goodness of humanity is sustained by the generosity of our donors and the tireless efforts of our staff. If there was ever a time that called for compassion, it is now. Here are five reasons to donate to globally this year:
1. Your donation reduces more suffering per dollar.
$1 goes a lot farther in a country like Malawi than it does in the US. In Malawi:
- $1.40 can test and treat a child for malaria, saving his or her life.
- $15 can feed a family for weeks.
- $5,000 can drill a borehole that provides clean water to over 250 people.
2. Community is no longer just local.
If you live in a developed country, your grocery store is likely lined with produce that can’t grow in your climate. Your cellphone is created from materials mined from all over the world and assembled in China. The US’ carbon dioxide emissions weighed in at 5 billion tons in 2015. Africa accounts for only 2-3 percent of the world’s emissions. But Africa is one of the greatest victims of climate change. We are not separate. Our community is global. Our actions affect people on the other side of the world.
3. If you think you’ve had a hard year, imagine not having running water.
More than 40% of the world’s population struggles to live on less than $5.50 a day. Many people have to walk over two hours to the nearest doctor. These people are not different from you. They were born into a country that has less resources than yours. By giving globally, you redistribute your excess. You contribute to a more equitable world.
4. Global communities have been left out of this year’s charitable giving.
In response to COVID-19, 58% of donors planned to give locally. Only 11% planned to give internationally. This left poor countries unsupported. In May, the Malawi government cautioned people to stay at home and stop farming. Malawians cannot order groceries online. They rely on their crops to survive. The world’s poor do not only feel inconvenienced by the pandemic, they starve. They need just as much support as local communities, if not more.
5. The joy of giving lasts longer than the joy of getting.
Studies suggest that giving makes us feel connected. It reminds us we belong. After nearly a year of social isolation, we all need connectivity. The pandemic may be global, but so is generosity. Be a part. Spread the love
Stories from the Field
The Culture of Malawi: An Introduction to Malawian Proverbs
Malawian culture has always been known as a treasure trove of wisdom, and proverbs being an integral part of our rich heritage. These timeless sayings have been passed on through generations, offering guidance, direction, and warnings that shape our values, beliefs, and daily lives. In our upcoming blog series, we will delve into the world of Malawian proverbs, exploring their meanings, contexts and significance. Read today's blog post which serves as an introduction to our journey.
As Big as the Sky Book Review
Read today’s blog about the children’s book, “As Big as the Sky”, a Malawian story about a brother and sister whose love for each other is as big as the sky.
Orant’s Values
“Orant respectfully serves and collaborates with our community in a sustainable way.”
The Village Chief’s Vital Role
Ever wondered why we always mention village chiefs and their involvement in Orant’s work? If yes, then today’s blog article is for you! In this article, we talk to Village Head of Kasese Village in Dowa, who tells us about her duties and why her involvement with Orant is important. Read today's blog article to learn more.
The End of Plenty Book Review
Recently, we read The End of Plenty by Joel K. Bourne Jr. An honest and sometimes scathing review of the Green Revolution, this book covers how monoculture crops have led to worsening hunger across the world. As the planet warms, the need is ever more urgent for us to find a solution to humanity’s desperate need to feed 9 billion people.
Urbanisation in Malawi: MW2063 Pillar #3
As we have discussed in some of our past blogs, Malawi Vision 2063 has three key pillars that guide the focus of the Vision. These three pillars are meant to build on each other to create the inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation that they envision. In this blog, we will look at the third pillar of MW2063: Urbanisation.
How big is Malawi?
How big is Malawi? How does Malawi compare to US states? Learn more here!
Best Things to Do in Malawi
Whether you are planning an African trip or just curious about the things we love about Malawi, read today’s blog to see the best things to do in Malawi!
Holidays in Malawi
Holidays are here again and we are so excited! Most of our team is taking time off with their families and loved ones, so please enjoy this blog while we are away. Celebrate the holidays with us the Malawian way!