Malawi Community Development Month Initiative Shows Promise
The CDM initiative aims to address development challenges and gaps by empowering communities to take charge of their own progress.
Mchinji, Malawi - The Community Development Month (CDM) initiative, designed to foster self-reliance and community empowerment, is showing positive results, according to the Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, writes Martha Nakhate.
The Minister of Gender and Social Welfare, Hon. Jean Sendeza, commended the community of T/A Simphasi under Senior Chief Mavwere in Mchinji for their remarkable achievements.
During a visit on August 20, 2024, the Minister officially opened a new school block constructed by the community with government support through the Community Development Fund (CDF).
The community has also undertaken several other projects, including the construction of teacher's houses and a police station, currently underway.
"This is a testament to the power of self-help," said Minister Sendeza, urging other communities to emulate this approach.
"Sustainability is achieved when people take ownership of their development."
Sendeza also announced that the government has increased the CDF allocation to each constituency from 100 million Malawi Kwacha to 200 million Malawi Kwacha.
Jefter Mwale, MP for Mchinji Central Constituency, praised the initiative, highlighting its potential for rapid development.
"This approach ensures sustainability because the development implemented is based on the specific needs and wants of the community," he said.
T/A Simphasi attributed their success to unity and dedication.
The CDM initiative aims to address development challenges and gaps by empowering communities to take charge of their own progress.