A development project implemented by Moyo Ngwathu in Lilongwe District has had a significant impact on the lives of local residents. The Water, Agriculture, Women Empowerment, Education and Hygiene (Waweh 4) project, valued at K980 million, has been transforming access to education and essential services in Traditional Authority (T/A) Mbwatalika. The project has been making a positive difference in the area.
The project has led to significant improvements in education infrastructure at Chivuwo Primary School. Moyo Ngwathu has constructed classrooms, teachers' houses, and toilets at the school, which previously lacked adequate classroom space. Children were forced to learn under trees and in a church, but the new facilities have provided a conducive learning environment. This has contributed to an increase in enrolment.
Enrolment at Chivuwo Primary School has increased from about 300 to 882 learners, according to Lilongwe Rural West chief education officer, Grace Gulura. She attributed the increase to the construction of classroom blocks and other infrastructure. Gulura commended Moyo Ngwathu for complementing the government's efforts and called for more partnerships with non-governmental organisations.
Moyo Ngwathu's project also addressed other challenges faced by local communities, including hunger, poverty, and lack of clean water. The organisation drilled 13 boreholes, supported 660 farmers with irrigation equipment and inputs, and established a women's skills development centre. These interventions have improved the overall well-being of residents in T/A Mbwatalika.
Moyo Ngwathu chief executive officer, Ringo Kanshulu, said the organisation embarked on the project after identifying the major challenges affecting communities in the area. Kanshulu highlighted that children were walking over five kilometres to access a full primary school, which affected their performance. The project has helped address these issues.
Lilongwe district water development officer, Joshua Mpokwa, urged communities to take ownership of the infrastructure and equipment provided through the project. Group village head, Kampango, commended Moyo Ngwathu and called on the government to introduce a school-feeding programme at Chivuwo Primary School to address hunger among learners.
The Waweh 4 project was made possible with financial support from Germany-based Zikomo Foundation, ONG Oppen Hand for Malawi from Luxembourg, and the Luxembourg Government. The project's impact is a testament to the importance of partnerships between government, non-governmental organisations, and communities in driving development.
Key points
- The project improved access to education and essential services for local communities.
- Enrolment at Chivuwo Primary School increased from 300 to 882 learners.
- The project was financially supported by Zikomo Foundation, ONG Oppen Hand for Malawi, and the Luxembourg Government.
