First Lady, Professor Gertrude Mutharika, has described the launch of the Orphan Allowance Programme 2026 in Malawi by the Muslim World League as timely and necessary, coming at a time when many Malawian orphans require support.
She made the remarks in Lilongwe during the launch of the programme, which is expected to support over 6,000 orphans across the country.
“This noble programme is a true reflection and a testament that compassion knows no boundaries, neither does religion, race, nor nationality. For more than 60 years, the Muslim World League has been a beacon of hope for vulnerable communities across the globe,” said the First Lady.
She said she is pleased to note that the Muslim World League, a non-governmental organisation, has touched the lives of many through the provision of humanitarian aid, famine relief efforts, education and health programmes in Africa, Asia and Europe, demonstrating a true spirit of global solidarity.
The First Lady has also been honoured as patron of the initiative in Malawi, a role she said she accepts with a strong sense of responsibility.
“ I take the mantle with great responsibility, realising that supporting orphans is not simply a moral duty. Rather, it is a sacred commitment to rebuilding broken lives and restoring broken, lost dreams. With this allowance programme, I am saying to these children ” YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN. TOGETHER WE ARE A FAMILY,” said Professor Gertrude Mutharika.
She further said the programme comes at a time when Malawi is facing numerous challenges.
“Our economy, like many others around the world, continues to bear the strain of global shocks and domestic pressures like the rising cost of living, youth unemployment, and the devastating effects of climate change,” she said.
She added that there is a need to remember that the 6, 000 children who are going to benefit from this programme are not just numbers—they are the future leaders of the nation.
“It is our responsibility to nurture them with love, education, and dignity. When we invest in them, we invest in the Malawi we all dream of—a Malawi that is prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive,” she said.
By Mwai Mtumodzi
