[2] The charity was founded by Patricia Parker OBE to support children who are facing hardship in remote villages of Darfur.
The original inspiration for the charity was a chance meeting between Parker and a nine-year-old Sudanese child from the village of Um Ga'al who was struggling across the desert in the immense heat of Darfur, to fetch water for his brothers and sisters.
The water he collected would also be used to keep three goats alive—their milk was the children's only source of protein, minerals and vitamins.
[4] In February 2005 Patricia Parker and her son were abducted by rebels in Darfur but subsequently released unharmed.
[5] At one point during the abduction the leader of the rebels shouted: ‘Don’t you understand that I could have you killed at any moment?’ but Parker kept smiling and said: ‘Of course I do—but I also know about Sudanese hospitality and I know that I am perfectly safe’.
This was one of the first brick buildings in the village and includes latrines, a veranda (shade and an extra classroom) a water tank and fruit trees.
Other schools include Abu Digeise (supported by Joanna Lumley OBE) Azagarfa (supported by City of London School), Um Ga'al, Kindro, Hillat Hamid, Siwailinga, Golo C and Sakori amongst others.
[7] Since conflict erupted across Sudan in 2023, millions have lost their homes, food is scarce, families are desperate.
[11] Kids for Kids Patrons include Dame Joanna Lumley OBE FRGS, Miriam Margolyes OBE, Timothy West CBE, David Suchet and Lord Cope of Berkeley PC.