Malawi is a landlocked country in Africa bordered by Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia.  The territory was part of a British colony named, Nysadland, until independence in 1964. Malawi is considered one of the poorest countries in Africa. The population is estimated at 17M with a high proportion of young people.  Over half of the population lives below the poverty line. Despite its many economic and social challenges, the country is known by its nickname, "the warm heart of Africa".

Nearly one million orphans have lost one or both parents to AIDS or early death.  Orphaned children are often taken in by their extended family in their local village.  However, the children often lack sufficient parental care, lack proper nutrition, have inadequate shelter, limited access to education and healthcare and are at an increased risk of exploitation and abuse.