Baptist Development Service has handed over K5 million to four business groups equipped with skills on how to run village savings and loans (VSL) associations at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa District.
Through the VSL programme which started in 2021 as part of its relief programme, the organisation has been equipping 40 members in the camp annually with skills in savings and entrepreneurship to promote self-reliance.
Speaking on Tuesday during a cheque handover in Dowa, Baptist Convention of Malawi president the Reverend Dalitso Matekenya said as a revolving fund, the support rendered to the groups is meant to help members to start and expand small businesses to improve their economic well-being.
“As a church, it is our responsibility to take care of the vulnerable and the reason we have extended the financial support is to empower them for their welfare,” he said.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which has been supporting refugees at Dzaleka Camp, has recently effected funding cuts, leaving many inhabitants struggling to survive.
In light of this development, Matekenya said it is crucial for the church to also take up the role of supporting the refugees.
When UNHCR’s funding was stable, refugees at Dzaleka Camp in Dowa were assured of basic protection and essential services. However, as of March, the agency reported receiving only 12 percent of the $26.3 million required for Malawi this year.
The World Food Programme for years provided cash aid of K18 000 ($10) per person monthly but has reduced this support to $8.60 per person.
One of the beneficiaries, Eunice Umwali, said the finances will enable them to put their training into practice and capitalise on income-generating activities.
