By Ethel Gama
In an effort to address the lack of development in Senior Chief Chikumbu’s area in Mulanje, the community has launched a fundraising campaign to construct a community hall.
Elton Magombo, Secretary of the Area Development Committee (ADC), explained that the community had been waiting for assistance from the council and politicians who had made pledges, but nothing has materialized to date.
“As a result, the community members have taken matters into their own hands, with each member contributing K1,000 towards the project,” Magombo said.
He noted that contributions will be collected gradually, as many community members are struggling financially and are finding it difficult to meet even basic needs like food.
“We understand that not everyone can afford to contribute money, so some farmers are pledging to donate pigeon peas and other resources,” he added.
Magombo also shared that a committee has been established to manage the finances, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.
“We have opened a special account where the collected funds are being deposited,” he explained.
Magombo emphasized that their efforts are in line with the 2063 goals, which encourage communities to develop their areas using locally available resources as a step toward achieving self-reliance.
“We are appealing to anyone who can contribute in any way toward the construction of this much-needed community hall. With collective effort, we can build a magnificent facility,” he added.
Kenneth Mumma, Executive Director of Children of Hope Organisation (COHO), commended the community’s initiative and called on other organizations in the district to support the project.
“Since we have an ongoing project to construct CBCCs in the area, we will negotiate with donors to assist in this construction, as the hall will serve the community, facilitate various meetings, and act as a tool for fundraising,” Mumma said.
The American Firelight Foundation and Mudzi are supporting Children of Hope Organisation, which has been actively involved in community development in Traditional Authority Chikumbu in Mulanje District since 2007. The organization focuses on Early Childhood Development through the construction of CBCCs, offering soft loans to parents and caregivers, providing livestock to families, and other initiatives.
