Matsukambiya Village – Shaping the Future
Dengu lethu la zakudya
Overview
This project aims to transform the village of Matsukambiya in Malawi into a model village for sustainable development.
Just a year ago (January 2023), Matsukambiya was a collection of makeshift huts covered with tarps, built by people who had lost all their few belongings to Tropical Storm Ana and had been assigned this barren piece of land by the government.
Patimalawi supported YCD in enabling the villagers to build 50 huts using traditional construction methods. A mango tree is planned to be planted next to each hut, providing both shade and food.
Additionally, a generous donation made it possible to build a community center, offering a suitable space for village meetings, celebrations, and children's play activities.
In the meantime, hunger has been kept at bay through emergency maize donations.
The next step is to ensure long-term food security. To achieve this, a permaculture project will be implemented in collaboration with a specialized organization.
Through a holistic approach, residents will be supported in growing their own food, enabling them to secure their livelihoods independently of food aid in the medium term.
Project Goals
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Provide food for 800 families in Matsukambiya
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Train 800 families in sustainable agriculture
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Create jobs for 3,000 people in Matsukambiya and surrounding villages
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Establish paid jobs and businesses by leveraging the local economy during project implementation
Goal achievement
Self-Sufficiency through Permaculture:
Introduction of permaculture methods to promote self-sufficiency and sustainable agriculture. Permaculture aims, on one hand, to create water reserves for drought periods, and on the other hand, to prepare the soil with suitable plantings so that it can absorb more water during rainy seasons and better withstand flooding.
Holistic Support:
Establishment of a community center offering educational programs, healthcare services, and cultural activities.
Infrastructure for a Livable Community:
Construction of sturdy housing and ensuring a reliable water supply.
Fight Against Child Marriage:
A zero-tolerance policy toward child marriages and the promotion of children’s rights within the community.
Requirements and measures
Participation of Village Residents:
Democratic decision-making and active involvement of the community in planning and implementation.
Taking Responsibility:
Promoting solidarity and encouraging residents to take responsibility for the long-term success of the project.
Ensuring Sustainability:
Training local community members in infrastructure maintenance and ensuring fair distribution of profits from agricultural operations.
The Matsukambiya Village Project is a pioneering example of holistic development cooperation. It not only meets the basic needs of the community but also strengthens awareness of sustainability, equality, and social responsibility.
Sustainable Development Goals
This project contributes to achieving several of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda.
By creating local jobs and promoting a sustainable economy, the project contributes to economic growth.
The ban on child marriage in the village strengthens the rights of girls and improves their opportunities for education and self-determination.
By promoting sustainable village development and infrastructure, the project strengthens the resilience and quality of life of the community.
The project advocates for the protection and sustainable use of land ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.