Last Friday, Mulanje shone brighter as the final cash distribution unfolded for the Tropical Cyclone Freddy Malawi Response and Recovery project, backed by the Canadian Food Grains Bank (CFGB) and the Presbyterian World Service & Development (PSW&D).

Amidst a warm atmosphere of togetherness, we had visitors from CFGB who graced the event at Thuchira EPA, adding significance to the day.

However, the most exciting moment was the unexpected bonus for the beneficiaries. Alongside the anticipated MK50, 700.00, each member received an extra MK21, 000.00, totaling an impressive MK71, 700.00 per beneficiary.

This delightful surplus originated from the MK75, 000.00 voucher set aside for agricultural inputs, promising even more substantial support.

 We are delighted to share some heartwarming news that's bound to put a smile on your face! 

CARD, with generous funding from Canadian Food Grains Bank/Presbyterian World Service & Development, is making a significant impact in Malawi with the Tropical Cyclone Freddy Response and Recovery project, right in the heart of TA Juma, Mulanje district.

We aim to bring hope and relief to 2500 incredible beneficiaries at five distribution centers: Khwalala, Namphungo, Luwangwa, Masitala CBO, and Thuchira EPA, who have been touched by the cyclone's devastating effects.

Recent Success: As we speak, from November 3rd to 7th, 2023, we have been distributing essential agricultural inputs to our beneficiaries. The fantastic news is that this operation has been a massive success! The smiles, gratitude, and positivity from the beneficiaries light up our hearts. 

They have extended their heartfelt thanks to CARD for connecting them with dedicated Agro Dealers who made the input distribution seamless. These Agro Dealers have worked tirelessly to reach the beneficiaries at the five distribution centers.  Each beneficiary received 10Kg of basal dressing fertilizer, 10Kg Top dressing fertilizer and 5Kg Maize seed early maturity.

But that's not all – this project is a beacon of resilience, as it's not just about providing a helping hand, but it's about empowering the community to get back on their feet. 

We are thrilled to share the positive outcome of our collaboration with Christian Aid officials during our visit to the picturesque Ndunde village, where we had the opportunity to observe the remarkable results of the Post Cyclone Freddy Recovery and Resilience Project.

As we strolled through the picturesque landscape, we were greeted by the lush maize fields of four remarkable beneficiaries. Their success story was evidence to the unwavering dedication of local farmers and the tremendous support provided by the project. We had the privilege of witnessing a thriving tomato garden lovingly cared for by these resilient farmers, who harnessed the seeds provided by the project in August 2023.

The generosity of the Post Cyclone Freddy Recovery and Resilience Project knows no bounds. With open hearts and open hands, the project distributed 2 kilograms of maize seed and 2 kilograms of beans to over 1000 households. Additionally, it extended a helping hand to 430 households, providing tomato and Chinese seeds. This lifeline was offered to the affected households in the TAs Njema and Sunganinzeru regions, providing much-needed support to those in their time of need.

On a radiant Thursday, the 19th of October 2023, we embarked on a momentous and promising journey, officially unveiling our dynamic 2023-2028 strategic plan. The air was filled with optimism as CARD called upon the world to come together to foster community resilience in the face of today's challenges.

Representing this ambitious new blueprint, CARD's Programs Manager, Arthur Lichenya, proudly introduced the theme that will shape our actions for the next five years: "Actions that Count." With unwavering conviction, Lichenya emphasized that the activities and processes outlined in this strategic plan are set to be a catalyst for transformative change within the communities CARD is dedicated to serving. 

Moreover, this bold vision is not confined to Malawi alone; it aspires to extend its reach across southern Africa, strengthening capacities and nurturing community solutions to enhance well-being and resilience.

During the grand launch event at Serendib Hotel in Blantyre, CARD Vice Board Chair, Reverend Dr. Mwawi Chilongozi, highlighted the pressing need for a focused response to climate change. She underscored that climate change is at the root of various challenges faced by the nation. This plan's unveiling symbolizes a commitment to mitigating these challenges and creating a more resilient society.

George Chikuse, the Director of Administration for the Mulanje District Council, was brimming with optimism. He believed that CARD's blueprint would directly address the challenges exacerbated by climate change shocks that his region had experienced. The community leaders and stakeholders present at the launch resonated with this sentiment, recognizing the potential of this strategic plan to bring about positive change.