The Social Cash Transfer Programme in Mzimba is no longer just a safety net for beneficiaries, but is increasingly becoming a pathway to self-reliance.
Government, in partnership with CRECOM, says many beneficiaries are now building sustainable livelihoods through business skills training and financial support under the Social Protection for Gender Empowerment and Resilience (SP-GEAR) project.
Following a recent field inspection in the area of Traditional Authority Mtwalo in Mzimba North, CRECOM Projects Officer, Chikumbutso Chikuni, said over 220 groups are currently engaged in income-generating activities.
“We are seeing real change. Beneficiaries are not only receiving cash, but also gaining skills to become economically independent,” he said.
In Ekwaiweni, 67-year-old Mussa Honde invested his cash transfer funds in a dairy cow, an asset now supporting his family.
“Life has improved. The cow has become a source of income and stability for my family,” he said.
For women like Wezi Nyirongo from Engcongoleni, the programme is opening doors to financial independence through village savings and loans groups.
She said her group shared over K9 million in just one year, something that was not possible before joining the village banking initiative.
Meanwhile, in Emsizini, Joyce Mvula turned a K96,000 investment into a thriving wrappers business, earning up to K350,000 after selling the products in South Africa.
Her group also generated K3.4 million through collective ventures, including farming and small-scale businesses.
Officials attribute the success to a “cash-plus” approach, which combines financial support with business training and mentorship.
Community Development Officer for Mzimba North, Liny Mankhaule, said this approach ensures long-term sustainability for both groups and individuals.
“We are equipping beneficiaries with practical skills in business and farming, as well as capacity building, so they can stand on their own even after graduating from the programme,” she said.
The project is funded by the European Union and the Government of Ireland through UNICEF. It is being implemented by CRECOM in collaboration with local councils in Mzimba and Zomba.
By Hassan Phiri
