Are Women’s Rights the Cause of Our Time?

The New York Times Sunday Magazine seems to think so. Yesterday’s entire issue was devoted to women in development. In an excerpt from their new book, Nicholas Kristoff and Sheryl WuDunn say that the liberation of women could solve many of the world’s problems, from poverty to child mortality to terrorism. The African Childrens Haven board agrees with that sentiment and places a high priority on programs that benefit women and girls. Read more:

What Should We Do About Sticking?

An African Childrens Haven Associate recently returned from Africa concerned that teachers in one of the schools we support routinely hit the children. The school’s policy prohibits corporal punishment, but the policy is openly ignored. As we understand it, so-called sticking is mainly confined to a wrap on the hand and is a standard practice across larges parts of the Continent. African Childrens Haven does not have a policy on corporal punishment, but our board will discuss the matter at its September meeting. The question is how far do we go? Should we deny funding to schools where corporal punishment is practiced or should we find a middle ground? Cutting off funding to a school that is otherwise doing a good job seems extreme and would hurt the children. Is there a middle ground? Ideas?

MSNBC Highlights Plight of Nairobi Slum Kids

Andrea Mitchell’s recent report on the plight of kids living in Kibera, Africa’s largest slum, is a must-see for anyone interested in the well-being of African children. The story focuses on a primary school for local orphans, nearly 40 percent of whom are HIV positive. African Childrens Haven support a similar school in Mathare, Nairobi’s second largest slum. The plight of children in Mathare is all-too-similar to what Mitchell describes and the need is equally urgent. See a video about the work being done at St. Phillips.

Texas Journaling Group Supports Tanzanian Orphans

Dody Stovall

A local women’s journaling group, the Flamingos, is supporting orphan girls in Tanzania who have shown a talent for science and math. Thanks to the Flamingos, five girls will receive a Twirligirli gown in recognition of being selected for a secondary school science scholarship.

“The idea is to make sure that the girls know that someone cares about them,” says Twirligirli founder Cathy Stovall. The gowns were donated in memory of Stovall’s mother, Dody Stovall (pictured here on her 57th wedding anniversary).

“She loved my Twirligirli business and encouraged and inspired me to continue my mission of bringing cheerful twirls to girls through colorful, playful gowns.” Stovall adds. “Many times, she sewed finishing touches to the gowns with her loving hands. They carry her goodness and sweetness and are dedicated to her.” Learn more about Twirligirli.