Memory books help children

“The memory books mean a great deal to both the parents and the children. The books help them put words to feelings, thoughts, and experiences.”
Beatrice Muwa, Senior Health Coordinator for Plan in Tororo, Uganda

Memory books are helping children

Plan is involved in a project encouraging AIDS infected parents in Uganda to make memory books for their children.

The project, among other things, assists HIV infected parents with acquiring knowledge and skills for securing their children’s future. Parents are, for example, encouraged to designate guardians, write wills, and make memory books for their children.

So far 250 families, parents and children together, have written memory books. More books have been started, but are yet to be completed. Some will sadly never be completed, either because the parents die or because they don’t have the strength to continue writing.

Beatrice says; “This is a difficult process for many Africans because it is not common to talk about death before it occurs. The memory books help children through the healing process and becomes their most treasured possession.”

The goal of the project is to increase the quality of life for children and families living with, and affected by, AIDS through health interventions and through improving their economic and social status. The project has so far generated a lot of enthusiasm from the community, and an increasing number of people are asking to be tested and to receive assistance in making plans for their children.