Blog

As we move forward, what keeps me hopeful is simple: people working together. At International Needs New Zealand we’re privileged to partner with communities who show extraordinary resilience, ingenuity and care for one another. Whether it’s the women leading savings groups in Nepal, communities improving sanitation in Uganda, or local teams pioneering new ways to support children’s learning, the progress we…

At the beginning of 2026, NZ supporters responded generously to our Uganda WASH Appeal, raising an incredible NZD $94,408 to help bring clean water, safe sanitation, and hygiene education to vulnerable communities. As WASH III works to complete critical water and sanitation improvements in rural Uganda, your support is helping families move closer to health, dignity, and long-term sustainability. Here’s an update on the impact you are helping create.

After Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread devastation across Sri Lanka, supporters of the Sri Lanka Floods Emergency Appeal helped deliver urgent relief to families in crisis. Phase 1 of the response reached over 900 families with food and essential supplies, supported in part by almost NZD $30,000 raised in New Zealand. Thank you for standing with communities in their time of greatest need.

Following a 2025 visit to Kenya, a generous donor funded the installation of Starlink internet at Ark Quest Education Centre — a transformational upgrade for this rural school community. Reliable, high-speed connectivity is now opening the door to stronger sponsor relationships, enriched learning opportunities, and improved communication with international partners. What may seem like a simple infrastructure upgrade is already expanding possibility for staff and students alike.

When urgent surgery threatened one sponsored child’s future, generosity and prayer made the impossible possible. Huzaifa’s story is a powerful reminder of how lives can be transformed when compassion crosses borders.

In September 2025, a team from INNZ travelled across Kenya and Uganda on a Discovery Trip, witnessing faith in action and lives being transformed. From Bible Clubs in Nairobi to clean water projects and community-led initiatives in Uganda, this journey tells a story of hope, partnership, and lasting impact.

At the end of January, representatives from across the International Needs network gathered in the Philippines for the inaugural INAP Summit. Thirty-seven delegates came together for a week of reflection, collaboration, and forward planning — strengthening relationships and aligning processes to better serve the communities entrusted to our care. United by a shared mission, the Summit marked an important step forward for the future of INAP worldwide.

In February, twelve women from marginalized communities across Nepal completed Lydia Jewellery Training, gaining practical skills and renewed confidence to start home-based businesses. What began as a short-term course is already multiplying into new opportunities — including income generation, community outreach, and expanded vocational pathways. As the programme evolves, Lydia is preparing to reach over 100 women annually through diversified training and support.

In the Korogocho slum of Kenya, weekly Bible Clubs are creating a safe place where children can learn, grow, and discover hope. Through Bible lessons, creative activities, and practical care, more than 75 children are building confidence, faith, and brighter possibilities for the future.

At the beginning of March, we met Eleni (32) in Fiji, where she lives with her three young children. Eleni’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation – a journey shaped by hardship but defined by hope.  Growing up, Eleni embraced opportunities that allowed her to express herself and show her talent. While still in…