Sustainability is a key aim of the Heart of Mercy – the Goat project now includes 20 children with disabilities and 37 goats (9 are pregnant). This has been well managed for several years but development is slow. The principle that goats belong to the child and the first kid is transferred to a new family is well established. A wish to learn how to milk goats is being explored, as this is not normal practice in this part of Malawi. Training in animal husbandry is needed too and being explored.

A grant recently given by MMN will go towards the training provided to families in caring for these animals, with the knowledge of what they can provide for the family. Parents who have a disabled child often struggle to support them and provide for their specific needs. Projects like the Goat project are a big step in providing a more sustainable livelihood for these families.