We recently shared the heartbreaking story of a little boy found wandering the streets in a town in southern Nigeria. And as hard as it us for us to comprehend, he was cast out by his family because they believed him to be a witch.
The toddler was emaciated, starving and close to death, when he was found by Anja Ringgren Lovén, a Danish charity worker living in the area.
Anja subsequently shared progress updates of the toddler – aptly named Hope – on her Facebook page, capturing the hearts and minds of people all over the world who want to see him thrive.
Now in NEW photos released by Anja, Hope looks healthy and happy after two months of loving care.
In the photos the gorgeous little fellow appears to be playing, and has a bright and happy smile – his appearance worlds away from the devastating images of when he was first found.
Three years ago Anja founded the African Children's Aid Education and Development Foundation, to “break superstition in Nigeria, which is the reason why many children and young people accused of being witches are tortured, expelled, die of their injuries or killed by the local community”.
Since sharing Hope’s story the organisation has received over $1 million in donations.
“Thousands of children are being accused of being witches and we've both seen the torture of children, dead children and frightened children,” said Anja on the organisation’s website. “The images here show why I am fighting. Why I sold everything I own. Why I move out on shaky ground.
“30th January we found this boy that I have chosen to call HOPE. To see him sit and play with my own son is without a doubt the greatest experience of my life! I simply do not know how to describe it in words.”
We are thrilled to see Hope doing so well and wish this resilient, brave and strong little boy all the best in life.
