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From struggles to success: How Fatima Maseko transformed her life with CARD's support.

Balaka, Malawi-Fatima Maseko, a 41-year-old single mother of six, vividly recalls the challenges she faced before receiving support from the Enhancing Climate Resilience for Improved Income and Food Security (ECRIF) project.

"I had no place to call home. Life was tough and each day I feared for my children's safety," Fatima recalls. "The rainy season was especially terrifying, as we had no proper shelter to protect us.

Her life took a dramatic turn when she joined a Village Savings and Loan (VSL) group facilitated by the ECRIF project in Group Village Headman Nkaya, Traditional Authority Nkaya, Balaka District. With a loan from the VSL, Fatima launched a tomato business. In her first season, she earned an impressive MWK 250,000.

"This year, I managed to get enough money to start finishing my house," she shared with a proud smile. "I am grateful for the support. With the goats I received, I can produce manure for my farm, leading to bumper harvests. My home is now food sufficient and I no longer worry about feeding my children."

Fatima`s newfound financial stability has enabled her to pay MWK 40,000 in school fees for her Form 2 child. She dreams of a brighter future for her family, envisioning a painted and finished home, a thriving fresh food shop at the local market and livestock including chickens and guinea fowls.

The training in Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) she received from the ECRIF project has been a game-changer. "I can now see the difference in my yields. The knowledge has entirely changed how I approach farming," Fatima says.

With a deep sense of gratitude, Fatima expresses her hopes: "I want to ensure my children are well-fed and educated. I am building a future where my family can stand strong and independent."

Fatima`s journey is a testament to how targeted development initiatives like the ECRIF project can empower individuals and communities to break free from the cycle of poverty and build a sustainable future.

We are implementing the ECRIF project in Traditional Authority Nkaya, Balaka district with support from the Canadian Food Grains Bank through the Presbyterian World Service and Development.