DCM Launches Self-Help Project

The Deputy Chief of Mission was in Thyolo District in the Southern Region of Malawi on Wednesday October 11, 2006 to launch the Ambassador’s Self-Help Project.  In September 2005, the Self-Help Fund granted the Mitepera and Muwanya Livelihood project $2,700.00 (approx 350,000.00 Malawi Kwacha) to purchase livestock and irrigation equipment for demonstration farms.  This project has 86 participating farmers, mostly women.  The project consists of 7 Farmers Clubs (FCs) located in Mitepera, Muwanya, Musa, Mbalanguzi and Davies villages.  Three FCs received 4 cattle (3 cows and 1 bull) and the other four FCs received 9 half-bred dairy goats (8 females and 1 buck [male goat]).

Speaking at the launching ceremony, the District Administrator for Thyolo District, Mr. Mponda, expressed gratitude to the US Embassy for the grant.  He said, “I can already see how this grant is helping the marginalized communities surrounding the Zoa Tea Estate.”  He added that the provision of livestock and agricultural inputs would improve agricultural productivity and household incomes.  The Administrator promised to ensure sustainability of the project and a broader beneficiary base, with the assistance of the Zoa Tea Estate management.  In a farewell speech, the project manager, Ms. Rica David, hoped that the project would assist the Zoa Tea Estate to continue building the productive capacity of locals.  Rica appealed to beneficiary communities to take full ownership of the project.

In his remarks to over 200 attendees, the Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. David Gilmour, thanked the five village populations for turning out to welcome him.  Mr. Gilmour was satisfied with the efforts and sacrifices of the energetic British Volunteer, Ms. Rica David, for mobilizing village communities and teaching them animal husbandry techniques.  He thanked the Zoa Tea Estate Management for the logistical support they provided on the project.  Turning to skeptics, the DCM said, “I hope you [non participating farmers] have now seen the benefits of joining the Farmers Club.  Membership is still open.  Take advantage of it now and learn these improved agricultural production techniques.”

By Tony Ayuninjam, Self-Help Fund Administrator