World Vision Empowers Dowa Youth with K22 Million Worth of Sawing Machines

By Kondwani Kandiado……

World Vision Malawi has donated 45 sawing machines to youth in Lipiri, Dowa, who completed a six-month tailoring training program.

The organization also gave 15 machines to the Technical Vocational Education and Training centre in the area.

The donation, valued at K22 million, was funded by World Vision New Zealand. Arnold Tsalayekha, World Vision’s programs manager for Dowa, said the gesture aligns with the government’s policy of economically empowering youth.

“We want to ensure that youths are productive and economically empowered, discouraging them from unproductive activities,” Tsalayekha said.

Lipiri Area Development Committee Chairperson Friday Chilonga promised to ensure the machines are used for their intended purpose, with beneficiaries signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

Winnie Custom, a beneficiary from Yohane village, expressed excitement about owning a sawing machine, saying it will save her rental fees for other essential needs.

World Vision has supported the training centre with 26 sawing machines previously and has improved access to safe water, school infrastructure, and economic wellbeing in the area over the past 18 years.