The Chimteka villages have grown to 21 and are situated 120 km west of the capital Lilongwe with the last 20km rough red dirt roads, near the border with Zambia. The total population of Chimteka is 6,233; out of this population there are 1239 households, 116 elderly headed households, 8 child headed (orphan) households and 1113 orphans. The policy of Chimteka, as in Malawi generally, is not to confine orphaned children to a separate building/institution. On the whole, children who lose all adult relatives are taken in and provided for by local families. Around 14-20% of the population would have HIV(Aids).

The people are of the Chechewe tribe and speak that language, though English is taught at school. They are a friendly, laid back and non-violent people. Each of the 21 villages has its own chief with the overall chief being Mr Francis Kamude Phiri, an intelligent, well-educated man. Popular games among these children are football, running, skipping, tug-of-war and traditional dance.