Malawi: Phase 2 of the Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP) has started at the Machinga district. The resident communities of the country have shared their excitement for the initiative.
They believe that the initiative can successfully transform the resilience and economic standing of the poor. Additionally, the (CS-EPWP) will help them to be food secure during lean period.
The communities made these remarks commemorating the beginning of phase two of the programme. Rajab John, from Group Village Head Napwanga said he is optimistic about the success of the programme.
He believes that the money he will get after working in the programme will empower him economically. The money will also help achieve food security at the household level. He appreciated the authorities for coming up with the programme.
“I am happy that we have started working after some time. Right now, we are doing swales construction that can protect soil from being washed away and bring some disasters in our area.
“While we are trying to conserve our natural resources by doing such works, we are also benefiting economically through the money we are going to receive after working for 24 days. This money will help our families, as this time we are food insecure but also make some savings through village savings and loans groups,” he said.
Loviness Msonkho from Kasongo Village acknowledged that the money in the project is not enough. She made this observation considering the devaluation of the Malawi kwacha. However, she stated it still addresses economic challenges in her family.
Msonkho further said that what the government is doing should be commended as people are being paid for the work that would have been done for free.
Machinga district environmental officer Hamza Mussa concurred with the sentiments by other community members. He claimed that the CS-EPWP is helping poor communities by creating resilience and improving livelihoods.
“The programme is enhancing community participation in public works and eliminating poverty. Communities are the principle beneficiaries of the programme, as they are conserving their natural resources and at the same time being empowered economically,” he said.
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