Acacia, named after the strength and resilience of the iconic African tree, is a project run by TEAM (The Evangelical Alliance Mission) in N'Djamena, Chad. The ministry exists to bring vulnerable women hope, healing and a future in Jesus Christ.
Did you know?
- Chad has the third highest rate of child marriage in the world
- Many Chadian women are caught in abusive marriages and contract HIV from unfaithful husbands
- Many women end up in prostitution in an attempt to provide for themselves and their children
- In March 2016, research by the ONE campaign cited Chad as one of the ten 'most difficult countries to be born a girl.' A reality painfully illustrated by countless stories of abuse and rape, and the fact that 51% of young adult girls have given birth before the age of 18.
Our Response:
The Vulnerable Women’s ministry was pioneered by Naomi Duff who saw the need to invest in a marginalised section of the population. The work of Acacia is diverse, from medical help and crisis intervention to prayer and Bible storytelling. In 2016 the Acacia Centre was launched to provide a safe, private space for counselling and a base for the income- generating side of the ministry.
Today the ministry continues to reach out to and disciple women in red light areas, as well as building relationships with the men and children in an effort to launch a crucial prevention aspect to the ministry. Women who show a real desire for change are invited to join the Rehab programme where they receive Biblical and practical teaching, musical and art therapy and learn income-generating skills.
We currently have two missionaries, David & Lucy Morrison, who work with this project.
Our Vision (based on Isaiah 61v1–3):
- To see women’s dignity restored as they discover their true value and grasp God's love for them.
- Help women find heart healing after years of trauma and abuse.
- Help women find sustainable employment to support themselves and their children.
- Encourage the women to reach out to their own communities with God’s love.
- See the church engage with those who are marginalised and vulnerable.
"I was going to kill myself. I was really confused. Now I understand who God is and who I am. I’m a person of worth, I have my Lord, so I have everything."
Sandra (pseudonyms have been used to protect the identity of women)
How can I help Vulnerable Women in Chad?
- Buy our products, handmade by women in the Acacia programme (available at Mission Africa office).
- Invite David and Lucy to speak in your church/small group when they are in the UK.
- Raise awareness of Acacia's work in your locality.
- Pray! Click here to sign up to receive updates from the Morrisons.
- Join a prayer group (or start one in your area).
Join Our Team In Chad:
Mid and long term opportunities to:
- Teach the Bible / life skills /income-generating skills to vulnerable women.
- Teach arts/crafts/practical skills.
- Use your skills as a counsellor to help bring emotional and spiritual healing to vulnerable women.
- Join and develop the programme for children in the 'brothel areas' of N'Djamena.
- Build relationships with vulnerable women, bringing a message of hope.
- Build relationships with and evangelise the men in these ladies' lives.
