SCIAF Nativity Set

To mark SCIAF’s 60th anniversary, we were honoured to present a beautifully handcrafted Nativity Set to the Scottish Parliament in November. More than a gift, the set celebrates the creativity of young people in Malawi and Scotland, and the long friendship that binds the two nations.

The figures were carved by participants from SCIAF’s Hope for Youth project, which is run by SCIAF’s local partner CADECOM Malawi. It gives young people living in poverty the practical skills they need to lift themselves from the challenges they face, like woodworking, welding and electrical safety.  

Hope for Youth: A Door to a Brighter Future

Swema learned carpentry through Hope for Youth, allowing her to transform her young family’s life. This is Swema's shining success story, one of many thousands from the project! 

The new Nativity Set was designed by Lilongwe-based artisan Raphet Namacha, with young trainees learning how to finesse each figure from a single piece of wood. Slowly Mary, Joseph, and the Holy Family were brought to life through patience, skill, and pride.

Meanwhile, pupils from Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School in Dumbarton built the wooden stable that houses the set, working alongside SCIAF volunteer Michael Rainey.  

The Nativity Set was formally handed over to the Scottish Parliament by Bishop Brian McGee and SCIAF’s CEO Lorraine Currie, and received by Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone MSP. For many years to come, its place in Parliament will be a symbol of the values that have guided SCIAF for 60 years: dignity, solidarity, and hope. 

“From our humble beginnings in a classroom in Rutherglen, for 60 years, SCIAF has worked alongside communities around the world to tackle poverty and injustice, always grounded in dignity, solidarity, and compassion. We are delighted that SCIAF’s mission will be remembered in the Scottish Parliament through this beautiful Nativity Set.”

- Lorraine Currie, SCIAF Chief Executive