ZAZA KANTO

Zaza Kanto means "magnificent child" in Malagasy, the language of Madagascar.  It is also the name given to a group of eight boys in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar.  They make their living by singing for small change in the streets. 

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When we met them in July 2018, we were struck by their powerful sound - and their joy.  Over the succeeding months we have met them every Sunday, taking videos, getting to know them and their families, and sharing their music with as wide an audience as possible.

 

They have  started to reach a larger audience in Madagascar, appearing in several venues:

• US Embassy-sponsored event promoting cultural exchange through music

• Malaria conference sponsored by USAID

• Sponsored by the President of Madagascar,  they went to Egypt to sing for the national soccer team when they advanced to the semi-finals in the World Cup

 

But they still earn money for their families by singing in the streets of the city.   We have witnessed for ourselves how difficult their lives are and what little chance they have for a decent future.  We know that without proper support, poverty could simply silence their voices.

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To that end, we have established a donor-directed giving fund with the National Christian Foundation (NCF) to gather donations that will be used to provide housing and education, as well as to ensure the general welfare of these children.  Specifically, they need proper nutrition, healthcare, clothing, and safer living conditions where they can receive educational services.  The money raised here with your help will be distributed through charitable organizations operating in Madagascar with the administrative expertise and cultural knowledge to ensure the funds are used to build a real future for these children.

 

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