Eliza Mlesa, who lost her 17-year-old son and nine relatives to Cyclone Freddy, now hopes to rebuild her life, thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s housing project for cyclone survivors at Mujiwa village, Traditional Authority Njema in Mulanje.
“We are grateful for the support,” she said “Our lives were turned upside down by the cyclone, but now we have a chance to start a new life.”
Mujiwa Village, one of the hardest-hit areas by Cyclone Freddy in March last year, left many families without shelter — which prompted Habitat for Humanity to collaborate with Portland Cement to join government efforts of constructing new homes for the survivors.
The project aims to build 96 houses, with 37 already under construction.
Habitat for Humanity Malawi has expressed satisfaction with the progress in Mujiwa Village.
A recent visit to the construction site by the National Director for Habitat for Humanity, Victor Mhango and Portland Cement Marketing Manager and Corporation Affairs Manager, Violet Vilili established that some houses have reached window level, while others are nearing completion.
Portland Cement has contributed 600 bags of cement to support the construction, which began last year.
According to Mhango, Habitat for Humanity needs K1.2 billion to complete the housing initiative.
Currently, they have raised half of the amount.
By Morson Maluwa