Oasis Overland’s Annual Trip for Children from a Harare Home

On 14 February, the Oasis Overland Africa Operations Team, along with some of our dedicated crew, took part in one of the most rewarding days of the year! For over two decades, we have been working closely with a children’s home in Harare, offering support through food donations, educational materials, gardening tools, and even the installation of a borehole. However, the highlight of our efforts remains an event affectionately known as ‘Kids Week.’

This cherished annual tradition gives the children an exciting break from their everyday routine with a special day trip. Many of them live and study within the home’s compound, meaning they rarely have the opportunity to explore beyond their immediate surroundings. Thanks to the continued support of Responsible Travel’s Trip for a Trip scheme, we are able to make this day possible. Our trusted Africa ground handler provides the trucks, fuel, and crew to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

A Journey of Joy and Discovery

For the children, staff, and our crew, this event is an absolute highlight. Traveling in our Overland trucks, the journey itself is filled with excitement, singing, and laughter, even before reaching the destination. Simply driving through the vibrant streets of Harare is an adventure in itself for many of the children!

This year, we decided to run the trip across two different dates. On 14 February, we took 50 children and 7 staff members to Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary, located approximately 30km outside Harare. Twala Trust provides a safe and caring refuge for animals and birds in need, housing over 50 species that have been rescued from human-wildlife conflict, injury, or abandonment. The sanctuary also features a farm rescue program and a free-roaming dog shelter.

The impact of this trip was best expressed by the children and staff themselves:

Words from the Home Superintendent:

"Thank you Responsible Travel and Oasis Overland. We are at a loss of words to show how much we appreciate what you have done for us over the years and in particular the educational trip to Twala Trust Sanctuary. Our children could not hide how excited and honoured they were with this once in a lifetime experience. Your organisations implanted unforgettable memories in their minds. A big thank you once more. May God continue empowering your organisations.’’

Reflections from the Staff:

‘‘The children talk about these trips all year. They are so excited for today.’’

‘‘The staff look forward to this day so much too. We never go to such places and we learn so much from these days’’

‘‘It is nice to see our children enjoying themselves too much’’

Excited Reactions from the Children:

‘‘It was happy day’’

‘‘I was excited with that trip’’

‘‘It was a beautiful place and the lunch was delicious’’

‘‘I have never heard about this African hedgehog’’

‘‘Thank you for taking us to these places. We learn so much and I like these big trucks!’’

Making a Lasting Impact

It is always an honour to be part of this experience, witnessing the children’s curiosity, excitement, and appreciation. Seeing how much joy and learning a single day trip can bring highlights the profound impact such opportunities have on their lives.

At present, the children’s home is facing significant challenges, particularly in securing enough food supplies. Following the trip, we took the opportunity to assess their needs and were able to provide essential food provisions to help ease their situation.

We remain deeply committed to supporting the home and ensuring that these incredible children continue to have moments of joy, learning, and adventure.