Norwegian Church Aid and DanChurchAid (NCA-DCA) have expressed satisfaction with the progress and impact of the project to fight inequality being implemented by the Malawi Economic Justice Network (Mejn) in Mangochi District.
The project focuses on mining in Namizimu Forest Reserve, social protection initiatives such as the Affordable Inputs Programme, education bursaries and social cash transfers (mtukula pakhomo), among others.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ monitoring meeting on Tuesday in Mangochi, NCA-DCA Fighting Inequality programme officer Aisha Fatch said she was pleased with the positive feedback from stakeholders.
She said: “This is a six-year project that the organisation has been supporting Mejn to implement in Mangochi.
“Hearing the feedback from stakeholders, we are happy because we have seen that the project has empowered people to hold duty-bearers accountable on crucial issues.”
Fatch said the initiative has strengthened cooperation between communities, local government and civil society organisations, leading to improvements in public services and development.
She said: “Apart from promoting cooperation and transparency, the project has empowered communities on mining issues and how they can benefit from companies operating in the sector.
“This is exactly the kind of outcome we envisioned when supporting this project.”
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Network chairperson Joseph Makwakwa thanked the visiting officials for appreciating the project’s progress, saying the gesture motivates them to do more.
“This project is crucial because it seeks to reduce inequalities among people. As CSOs, we will remain steadfast to ensure that we create a just world,” he said.
Mejn Southern Region coordinator Mike Banda said they will closely work with stakeholders to ensure the project achieves its intended goals.
The project’s main goal is to build a more just and inclusive society by empowering community members, CSOs, faith leaders and other key stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to monitor government spending, advocate for social justice and promote transparency and accountability
