Resti Learka

Resti is typical of most women in Samburu, she married very young and has never had the chance to go to school. She has six children, the youngest of which is 3 year old Janita. Resti is wants Janita to have a better future than herself, and is relying on Saidia to help. She takes Janita to one of eight child care centres set up by Saidia in the region, just down the road from their home.

The centre is called a Loipi, which means 'under the tree' in Swahili. The Loipi builds on Samburu tradition, allowing children to be looked after by a group of carers, often grandmothers.

It looks like a play centre and is a chance for the children to have fun, but it is also a place where they learn to socialise, and where they can get a hot meal, vitamins and some water.

For many this is a vital lifeline as there is no food at home and hardly any water at all. The centre also helps parents, giving them a chance to learn about health and hygiene and good parenting.