Malawi - U.S. Exchange Alumni Association Initiates Joint Efforts with Peace Corp Volunteers

The Malawi -U.S. Exchange Alumni Association (MUSEAA), Blantyre chapter, initiated a program to work cooperatively with Peace Corps Volunteers to expand the reach of MUSEAA’s project activities into villages in the area.  With Peace Corps headquarters’ blessing, MUSEAA reached out to several PCVs who expressed interest in working collaboratively.  MUSEAA members have already committed to participating in a Peace Corps-led girls’ leadership camp in August.  We expect that more ideas for cooperative outreach activities will arise, particularly in support of MUSEAA’s ongoing project to raise awareness of drug and alcohol abuse. 

During a dinner event kicking off the cooperative effort with Peace Corps, the Blantyre MUSEAA chapter also welcomed new members who have just returned from exchange programs; updated members on the drug and alcohol abuse campaign; and, elected new officers.  Cultural Assistant and Alumni Affairs Officer Pamela Kuwali attended the event. 

Chapter Leader and Fulbright alumnus, Dr. Angela Chimwaza encouraged new members to actively engage in MUSEAA programs, which are beneficial for promoting national development.  She commended members who have already carried out programs that are having an impact either at the regional level or nation wide.  

The newly elected Vice Chapter Leader, and Reagan Fischell alumnus, Dr. James Ng’ombe (who also owns a publishing company) proposed that the current project on drug and alcohol abuse should include an essay competition for the youth and pledged to offer his expertise in organizing the competition.  

The dinner event was a solid step forward for the already well organized and motivated Blantyre chapter of MUSEAA.