CS-EPWP Changes Community Mindset in Nkhata Bay
Nkhata Bay District Commissioner Rodgers Newa commended communities for embracing the program's components, aiding its sustainability.
NKHATA BAY, Malawi— Community members in Nkhata Bay district have developed a positive mindset toward development projects under the Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Program (CS-EPWP), which promotes community participation through unpaid labor contributions, writes Rabecca Kaunda.
During the program's third cycle, traditional leaders are praising how CS-EPWP has helped their subjects realize the value of engaging in community development works.
Senior Chief Timbiri said sensitization efforts have empowered people to proudly participate in the five-day community contribution requirement.
"It has become hard for us as chiefs to mobilize community works in this democratic era, but CS-EPWP has made participants and non-participants take part willingly," Timbiri said.
So far in Kavuzi catchment area, locals have planted trees along the river and established a vertiver grass nursery for environmental conservation under the program.
Traditional Authority M'bwana of Usisya lauded how the project has led to rehabilitating several community roads through voluntary labor.
"Back then it was hard mobilizing people for free community works. But now they realize caring for roads is their responsibility," he said, citing the Mziza-Nthenthe road's renovation.
Nkhata Bay District Commissioner Rodgers Newa commended communities for embracing the program's components, aiding its sustainability.
"Seeing communities take ownership by reviving the spirit of free community works is a plus for us," Newa said. He urged leaders to mobilize non-participants as well.
The government's CS-EPWP initiative under the Resilient Livelihoods Project engages 11,233 participants through the National Local Government Finance Committee with World Bank funding in Nkhata Bay.
It promotes community-driven development through public works.