Imagine spending the night in a phone booth. It is cold and stuffy. You are hungry, with barely anything to eat. The world outside feels threatening, and you know you could be attacked at any moment — with no one to protect you. The only people you can rely on are your friends from the street, barely older than you. So you put on a brave face, always ready to fight, while inside, you are trembling with fear.
This is the daily reality for many children living on the streets of Kabwe, who are often targets of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Without a safe home environment, they remain vulnerable to violence from both peers and adults.
At Ciloto, we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing space — a place where children can be children again. Here, they have access to food, clean water, shelter, and basic healthcare, while adults offer support, guidance, and non-judgmental care. At the same time, we teach the principles of social coexistence, respect, and trust.
Our experience shows that a preventive system of care, combined with the consistent presence of caregivers and volunteers and a structured daily routine that balances study, work, and sports, allows children to regain their sense of security, dignity, and belonging.
