The Government has commended World Vision Malawi for its dedication and commitment in transforming lives of people in the country.
Deputy Minister of Education Nancy Chaola Mdooko, made the remarks at Mdika Primary School in Dowa district during the organisation’s closure of the Lipiri Area Program where it has been working since 2006.
Mdooko described the program as a model for national development, highlighting how targeted interventions and community-led initiatives can drive remarkable progress in the country.
“To World Vision, I extend my sincerest gratitude for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to Malawi’s development. Your legacy in Lipiri will endure, a shining example of what can be achieved through collective action,” she said.
Reflecting on the significant strides made since the program’s inception in October 2006, Francis Dube, World Vision’s National Director said he was deeply honored with the impact the program has had on the lives of children and women.
Dube said before the program, Lipiri residents faced numerous challenges, including unsafe water sources leading to waterborne diseases like cholera, low school enrolment due to a lack of understanding on the importance of education, limited access to skilled birth attendants for pregnant women, and difficulties in holding duty bearers accountable for service provision, but now this is a thing of the past.
“The Lipiri Area Program has transformed the mindset of this community, leaving behind assets and knowledge that will benefit generations to come.
“Today, we celebrate a transformative journey in Lipiri, where 98% of residents now have access to clean water thanks to 129 boreholes and a new water system, child stunting has decreased from 49.1% to just 22% through improved nutrition practices,” he said.
Dube also said World Vision has managed to construct Mdika Girls’ hostel which has eased hardships of girls who once traveled up to 16 kilometers to school, while the extensive programs in education, health, and livelihoods have dramatically improved community well-being and urged all stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of World Vision’s work continue.
Pastor Ben Kendrew, a special guest from Arise Church in New Zealand which funded the program, expressed satisfaction with how their financial support had been utilized.
Kendrew lauded the community for its commitment and resilience, emphasizing that the partnership had been fruitful and impactful.
Senior Chief Kayembe, who has been a key partner in the program, acknowledged the transformative power of World Vision’s work.
“The Lipiri Area Program has changed our lives in ways we never thought possible. Our children have better access to education, our families have cleaner water, and our future looks brighter because of the work we’ve done together,” she said.
Through the Program, 98% of residents in the area now have clean water, stunting rates for under-five children dropped from 49.1% to 22%, and school enrollment increased to 89.1% while prompt treatment for diarrhea rose to 100%.
