Christian Aid Launches Bamboo Value Chain Project in Dowa, Malawi

Christian Aid, a local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), is implementing the Bamboo Value Chain Enterprise Development Project in the Dowa district.

The project aims to support 2,000 households in areas such as Kambulire, Maweru, Mwanamanga, Chimeza, Mwambule, Kathumba, and Mlesha under Mvera EPA. Christian Aid is also rolling out a similar project in Lilongwe and Salima to address the underdevelopment of the bamboo sector in Malawi.

In partnership with District Forestry Officers and local extension workers, the project seeks to address key challenges.

Robert Thindwa, Christian Aid’s Programme Specialist, presented the project to the District Executive Committee (DEC) in Dowa, highlighting its objectives.

“We aim to contribute to wealth creation for 2,000 bamboo value chain actors through increased incomes, market access, and financial linkages,” he said.

The project will also enhance rural livelihoods through sustainable job creation and strong partnerships.

The project will also facilitate the formation of the National Bamboos Association of Malawi and Village Savings and Loans (VSLA) activities among bamboo community clubs.

Christian Aid will collaborate with key partners, including Green Livelihoods and Christian Aid Malawi, to ensure the project’s success.

To ensure sustainability, the project will focus on knowledge sharing, close implementation with local authorities, and local ownership.

Dowa District Council’s Acting Chief Planning Officer, Yusuf Laki, emphasized the importance of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council and CSO Network to enhance cooperation, transparency, and accountability.

The Bamboo Value Chain Enterprise Development project will run from September 2024 to August 2026 in Lilongwe, Salima, and Dowa districts, with Dowa receiving a budget of £125,000.