African orphans find joy, laughter in songs

The joyful singing of Africa's Watoto Children's Choir will be heard in Nelson this weekend.

The world-famous choir is made up of Ugandan orphans who will perform four free concerts in Motueka and Nelson. The concerts are performed on behalf of Tear Fund New Zealand and are described as "energetic and positive", featuring African rhythms, dances and angelic voices.

The children performing in Nelson, which is part of a 30-concert South Island tour, are the victims of the ravages of war and Aids which have torn apart their families. Each member of this choir has lost one or both parents.

The Watoto Children's Ministries is an organisation that funds their welfare.

It owns land and fundraises to build schools and houses where foster mothers live with up to eight children.

Tear Fund concert organiser Bruce Morris is excited that it's the South Island's turn to enjoy the joyful singing, vibrant costumes and infectious smiles of these children.

The last time they toured the South Island was in 2007.

"Their concerts are full of fun and you are guaranteed to leave with your feet dancing and your heart touched by these vivacious children."

Mr Morris said the choir was a testimony to the positive change that can occur when people choose to invest in the lives of the poor.

The Watoto Children's Choir has become well-known around the world and over recent years, has performed for the Queen at Buckingham Palace and for former American president George Bush.

The children will sing and dance in full African costume. They will be billeted out to Nelson families during their stay over the weekend.

The Watoto Children's Choir perform in Motueka tomorrow night at the Church of Christ High St from 7pm. On Saturday at noon they perform at the Christ Church Cathedral, Trafalgar Square. On Saturday night the choir will perform at Annesbrook Church, Saxton Rd, at 7pm. On Sunday the choir performs at the Atawhai Community Church, Todd Bush Rd, at 10am.

- © Fairfax NZ News