Serowe

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Botswana).

With about 60,000 inhabitants, Serowe is one of the largest village settlements in the central region of Botswana. Due to its location in a well-watered part of the country, most people in the area live from agriculture. Despite the relatively stable economic conditions, Serowe, similar to other parts of the country, is affected by HIV/AIDS. Due to this disease, children are often at risk of losing parental care and are therefore particularly vulnerable.

Since 2008, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Serowe.

20%
Of adults live with HIV/AIDS in Botswana

Children without parental care

In Serowe, the extended family plays an important role for the children in case of the loss of their parents. This is also evident in the case of HIV/AIDS. Although the situation of many of those affected is improving, more than 20% of adults in Botswana are still living with HIV. For many extended families, it is becoming increasingly difficult to provide food and schooling for the children they additionally care for. As a result, many children growing up in extended families work to contribute to the family income instead - making it difficult for them to break out of the cycle of poverty.

4 in 10
Of poor people in Botswana are under 14

Widespread poverty

Despite its economic growth, Botswana is one of the most unequal countries in the world. Child poverty is also widespread. According to official statistics, more than 4 in 10 people living in poverty are children under the age of 14. Combined with the widespread lack of parental care, this makes children and young people particularly vulnerable. In Serowe, many cannot afford enough food, shelter or an education.

Your support makes a difference for children in Serowe

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
40
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children learning to draw in kindergarten. We ensure that children have access to essential health and nutritional services, as well as education (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Botswana).

How your support helps in Serowe

Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.