By Burnett Munthali
Some participants of the Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CSEPWP) in Sanga, Senior Chief Mankhambira, Nkhata Bay, have shared how the initiative has empowered them to earn a living through small-scale businesses.
The programme, which focuses on restoring natural resources while improving livelihoods, has provided participants with financial resources that have enabled them to start income-generating activities.
Mary Manda, one of the beneficiaries, revealed that she has used her K48,000 monthly wages from the programme to establish a fish-selling business and venture into piggery.
She explained that by investing her earnings in these businesses, she has managed to reduce her reliance on natural resources such as firewood and charcoal, which are major contributors to deforestation.
Manda emphasized the importance of using the programme’s proceeds wisely, urging her fellow participants to invest in sustainable businesses instead of engaging in activities that harm the environment.
She pointed out that the primary goal of the CSEPWP is to restore natural resources, and participants can contribute to this objective by reducing their dependency on unsustainable practices.
John Longwe, a 23-year-old hawker, also shared how the programme has transformed his life.
He stated that the World Bank-funded CSEPWP gave him the opportunity to start a grocery business while simultaneously engaging in activities that support environmental conservation.
Longwe noted that before joining the programme, he struggled to find a stable source of income, but his involvement in the initiative has enabled him to achieve financial independence.
District CSEPWP Facilitator, Edward Ngwemba, disclosed that 15,418 people are currently benefiting from the programme.
He further stated that there are plans to expand the programme in the next phase to accommodate more people who can contribute to natural resource restoration while improving their economic status.
Ngwemba expressed optimism that with continued support and proper utilization of wages, more participants will transition from depending on environmentally harmful activities to running sustainable businesses.
The CSEPWP, which integrates environmental conservation with economic empowerment, continues to make a significant impact in Nkhata Bay by promoting sustainable livelihoods and reducing pressure on natural resources.
With participants like Manda and Longwe investing in businesses that align with conservation efforts, the programme stands as a model for balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
