Youth groups in Rumphi that have accessed youth and women empowerment loans through the Reformed Constituency Development Fund (CDF) have said the fund has enabled the youth who were idle due to lack of access to capital to venture into small-scale businesses.
In an interview, Jonathan Munthali, who heads Jaghala Youth Club, said the group has accessed K2.5 million, allowing members to venture into businesses of their choice.
Munthali has also said that he has used his share of the loan to boost his printing business at Chikhuni within Rumphi town.
“I was struggling to access stationery for the business. Once we got the loan I used my share to boost my business. I was able to buy stationery and other tools, said Munthali.
Chimwemwe Nkhoma, who leads Lunyina Youth Club, says he used his loan to repair one of the computers for his gaming business, where he charges about K200 per session for one to play various video games, while other members are now selling secondhand clothes and food items, among other businesses.
Youth Officer at Rumphi District Council, Ipyana Munthali, said the loans are empowering the youth economically to contribute to the development of their communities and also create employment opportunities for others.
By Manasse Nyirenda, MANA
