Social cash transfer bails out the elderly

The elderly in Neno District have expressed relief after receiving their stipend under the Social Cash Transfer Programme.

They said they will use it to buy food during the lean season.

Speaking on Monday during a pay parade at Mtengula II Cluster at Kamwamba Primary School, one of the beneficiaries, Vickson Chilembwe, 75, said the stipend will help him buy food and other basic necessities.

He said he did not harvest enough maize due to the dry spells the district experienced in the last growing season.

“Without this money, I would not have enough to eat. With limited assistance from relatives and no other reliable means of income, the programme provides us with a sense of security,” said Chilembwe from Somisomi Village, Traditional Authority Symon in the district.

Another beneficiary, Stonkeni Gaweni, 69, from Waiyatsa Village said the monthly stipend allows him to maintain some independence.

“This money helps me take care of myself. While it is not enough to cover everything, it’s critical for buying food,” he said.

Neno district commissioner Rosemary Nawasha urged beneficiaries to prioritise food and school materials for their children.

“The programe seeks to cushion the elderly and ultra-poor from poverty, therefore, use the money for the intended purpose,” she said.

Neno district social welfare officer responsible for the programme Amos Chandilanga said the safety net initiative was helping vulnerable households in the district.

The programme is targeting 3 493 households in the district.

The programme is being funded by the Multi-Donor Trust Fund through National Local Government Finance Committee.