Mponela Community Receives Grain Miller to Boost Economic Development
Mponela AIDS Information and Counseling Centre (MAICC) hands over a grain miller to Phwetekere community, promoting economic growth and supporting social services.
MPONELA, MALAWI — Mponela AIDS Information and Counseling Centre (MAICC) has handed over a K22.5 million grain miller to the Phwetekere community, with financial support from Phillip Morris International (PMI), the largest tobacco buyer in Malawi, writes Mphatso M'bang'ombe.
The maize miller project aims to support the community as a wealth creation initiative, generating income for social services such as paying school fees for needy learners and boosting women's business capital.
The facility will also reduce distances for women to access grain milling services.
George Kaunda, MAICC's Advocacy and Programs Manager, emphasized the significance of the miller, stating, "The facility will be treated with care in unity to develop its full potential, answering community needs."
Representatives from Dowa District Council Officials, Phillip Morris International, Pyxus Agriculture, and local community leaders attended the handover event.
Traditional Authority Mponela received the facility from MAICC and officially handed it over to the Phwetekere Community.
Community members expressed gratitude to MAICC and Phillip Morris International for their support in realizing this important project.
Chairperson for the project, Ausward Mapulanga, thanked MAICC and PMI for choosing their community as beneficiaries in Dowa District.
Mapulanga pledged to work hand in hand with community members and the funders to fulfil the aims and objectives of the project.
Matias Biswick, Traditional Authority Mponela representative, advised the community to remain united and focused, stating, "Good things come with evil and misunderstanding."
The handover of the maize mill at Phwetekere village is a significant achievement for MAICC and the community of Traditional Authority Mponela.
This project represents a step towards sustainable and inclusive development, empowering local communities and contributing to the economic growth of the area.
MAICC extends its appreciation to Phillip Morris International for their support and looks forward to continued collaboration in future community development initiatives.