The Norwegian Church Aid and Dan Church Aid alliance (NCA-DCA), in collaboration with the Catholic Development Commission of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, have urged farmers under the agroecology project to continue working hard towards achieving better results.
One of the advisors of Norwegian Church Aid, Siv Oystese, emphasized this during a monitoring visit to Mponela-Dowa farmers on Monday, November 17, 2025 where she expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.
Siv Oystese
“We’ve seen more than what we expected. Farmers are doing great work with the little support they’ve received,” Oystese said.
Oystese also commended the farmers’ ability to work together, share knowledge, and adapt to new techniques.
A farmer showcasing local preserving methods of seeds
The acting secretary of CADECOM in the archdiocese, Madalitso Chilalire, echoed Oystese’s sentiments, praising the farmers for their hard work and the positive impact the project is having on their livelihoods.
“So far, so good. The farmers have expressed satisfaction with establishing food forests and taking care of them,” Chilalire said.
Madalitso Chilalire, CADECOM Secretary, Lilongwe
Chilalire also highlighted the project’s success in improving food security and income generation.
He noted that more work is needed to address challenges such as climate change and soil degradation.
He also emphasized the importance of continued support and collaboration to ensure the project’s sustainability.
Maxon Chimkonda, a benefiting farmer from Mazengera village, expressed gratitude to CADECOM for the agroecology project, saying it has transformed their farming methods.
“We’ve learned to make manure, which has improved our sandy soils, and now we have a steady supply of food,” Chimkonda said.
Chinkonda, watering his garden
Chimkonda also appreciated the training on agroecology practices, which has enabled them to reduce their reliance on external inputs and improve soil fertility.
He noted that the project has also empowered them to share their knowledge with other farmers, creating a huge impact in the community.
He added by mentioning that the project has had a significant impact on his family’s nutrition and income, allowing him to afford basic necessities and even invest in other income-generating activities.
Two powerful initiatives led by Mirriam Foundation and Congregation of Teresian Sisters are making a profound impact on vulnerable communities in Malawi, offering hope, dignity, and economic empowerment to women and people living with HIV.
The Mirriam Foundation has been widely praised for its different transformative initiatives among people living with HIV in Dedza District.
Mirriam from Netherlands who is the founder of this foundation, established this foundation in the past 15 years after encountering different groups of people in Bembeke area Traditional Authority Kamenyagwaza, especially people living with HIV and AIDS.
During a recent visit by Elizabeth Brunner from Germany, support groups under Senior Chief Kamenyagwaza expressed heartfelt appreciation for the foundation’s efforts in improving their livelihoods.
After visiting different supoort groups, Brunner commended the visible transformation in the lives of beneficiaries, noting that despite their HIV status, many individuals are now thriving through empowerment activities.
Brunner and Sister Mulenga, appreciating how the support groups are keeping their pigs
“I will advocate for more support from well-wishers when I return to Germany,” she said, “so that these support groups can continue living healthy and dignified lives.”
Denis Chinthochi, chairperson of the support groups, highlighted the foundation’s impact. “The lives of those affected have greatly improved in their households thanks to the assistance we receive from the Mirriam Foundation and Sister Teleza’s guidance.”
Mkutu support group having interaction with Sister Mulenga on the progress of their group
Meanwhile Sister Teleza Mulenga who is the contact person for Mirriam Foundation. said she is also impressed with what the support groups are currently doing through pig farming initiatives and farming, which said there is great change to the lives of many people.
” from the visit, I have realized there is alot of change since I became a contact person for the foundation. There is alot of change which is happening to the people, for instance I have followed the lives of people, looking at them them health wise, their health status has been improved from time to time with different interventions which they receive from Mirriam Foundation.”
Currently, fifteen groups under Senior Chief Kamenyagwaza benefit from the foundation’s support, which includes food aid, pig farming, and access to seeds for crops such as maize and Irish potatoes.
Patricia Malizani from Ng’ona Support group one of the beneficiaries, enjoying the fruits of Pig initiative under Mirriam Foundation
One inspiring testimony came from Ellen David of Kadammanja Village. Diagnosed with HIV in 2007, Ellen endured years of illness before beginning antiretroviral therapy. Today, she radiates joy and strength, crediting the Mirriam Foundation’s support groups for her renewed health and ability to care for her children. “These initiatives have uplifted my family and inspired many others to reclaim their lives,” she said.
Meanwhile, at St. Mary’s in Dzaleka Refugee Camp under Nanthomba Parish, a Catholic women Association expressed deep gratitude to the Congregation of Teresian Sisters for their skill-building programs aimed at economic self-reliance.
Dzaleka Refugee Women being trained on how to make dish wash soap
Through training in soap making, body lotion making, and other practical lessons, women are now equipped to launch small businesses and support their families. “We face many challenges in caring for our households,” one participant shared, “but these skills have given us hope and a path to transformation.”
She also highlighted that with the withdrawal of USAID under United States of America, as refugees there are now facings more challenges at the camp, like shortage of food and other basic human resources.
The women also voiced their openness to receiving further training and support to improve their daily lives.
Sister Teresa Mulenga, who is the projectcoordinator, emphasized the importance of empowering women even within refugee settings. “We saw the need to equip these women so they can stand on their own,” she said. “They deserve the opportunity to thrive.”
Sister Mulenga training women how to make body lotion
These stories reflect the unwavering commitment to social justice, community development, and the dignity of every person especially those living on the margins.
Through faith-driven action, the Mirriam Foundation and the Congregation of Teresian Sisters are helping communities rise, one life at a time.
Mtima Woyera Parish in the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe recently held a vibrant three-day Parish Eucharistic Congress aimed at deepening the faith of parishioners and encouraging regular reception of the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
The event which started from 24_ 25 October, was held under the theme “The Eucharist at the Heart of Christian Life,” drew inspiration from the national Eucharistic Congress held earlier this year at Maula Cathedral as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year celebrations.
The Congress featured teachings led by Father Enock Kanjira, a Rector from Kachebere Major Seminary, who passionately urged parishioners to become instruments of spiritual renewal within their communities.
Fr Enock Kanjira, Rector from Kachebere Major Seminary
He emphasized the need for a transformative approach to the Eucharist, encouraging Christians to move beyond routine attendance and instead approach the celebration with reverence and purpose.
“We should not just take it as a daily routine because we are Roman Catholic Christians,” Father Kanjira said. “We must recognize the importance of Jesus Christ present in the Eucharist for our spiritual life.”
Father Kanjira carrying the Eucharist for adoration
Father Kanjira also reminded parishioners of one of the key resolutions from the National Eucharistic Congress that all faithful are encouraged to receive the Eucharist on the tongue, as a gesture of reverence and unity in faith.
Parish priest Father Innocent Mtapaonga, expressed his hope that the teachings would inspire lasting spiritual growth.
“I would like to ask all parishioners to practice what they have learned so that others may also come to know that God is in us and that we are Pilgrims of Hope,” he said.
Fr Mtapaonga, Mtima Woyera Parish Priest
Father Mtapaonga commended Father Kanjira for his dedication and insightful presentations, noting that the sessions would greatly enrich the parishioners’ daily spiritual journey.
Joseph Gumbo, Chairperson of the Parish Council, described the Congress as highly accessible and impactful, expressing optimism that parishioners would share the teachings within their Small Christian Communities.
Joseph Gumbo Mtima Woyera Parish Chairperson
Topics covered during the Congress included, the Eucharist as the summit of Catholic faith, the importance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation , Spiritual preparation for receiving the Eucharist and other Catholic teachings.
As Sacred Heart Parish continues its journey of faith, the Eucharistic Congress stands as a testament to the parish’s commitment to spiritual renewal and communal growth anchored in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Education institutions within the Catholic Archdiocese of Lilongwe have been called upon to uphold and promote Catholic principles and teachings in their approach to student learning.
Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese, His Lordship Vincent Mwakhwawa, made the appeal during the Teacher’s Jubilee Celebration held at Maula Cathedral on Saturday, 11th October 2025.
Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa presiding over Teachers Jubilee Celebrations
Bishop Mwakhwawa emphasized the importance of teachers recognizing their vocation, urging them to be Christ-centered, and to integrate their faith into their teaching.
“They need to share their faith with learners as they teach. It is not just a paid job, it is a calling to help transform young people into better citizens of this country,” he said.
His Lordship also encouraged students to pray for their peers who face challenges in accessing education due to financial constraints and the lack of schools in their communities.
He further revealed that the archdiocese, in collaboration with Archbishop Desmond Tambala, plans to construct approximately seven new schools over the next ten years.
“There are many young people out there who need education but cannot access it due to the limited number of schools and the cost of tuition. Given our current situation, we must build more secondary and primary schools and even a university to empower our youth,” he added.
Bishop Mwakhwawa handing over a certificate of recognition to one of the best performing schools during this year’s examination (Likuni Girls Catholic Secondary School)
Echoing Bishop Mwakhwawa’s sentiments, Reverend Brother Pascal Mtuwana, National Education Coordinator for the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops, said this year’s Jubilee celebration provided a platform for Catholic education institutions to become “Pilgrims of Hope” in society.
Reverend Brother Pascal Mtuwana, National Education Cordinator from MCCB
“We want to address our local challenges in the education sector, such as overcrowded classrooms, lack of teaching and learning materials, high school fees, and staff shortages. The question is, how can we, as Catholic institutions, become beacons of hope?” said brother Mtuwana.
Speaking on behalf of teachers from Catholic institutions, Mr. John Kumwenda, Vice Principal of St. Maria Goretti Girls Catholic Secondary School described the Jubilee celebration as insightful, noting that it has inspired educators on how to offer both academic and spiritual guidance to learners.
Mr. John Kumwenda, St Maria Goretti Girls Catholic Secondary School Vice Principal
He also encouraged teachers across Catholic schools to remain committed to delivering quality education.
The Teachers’ Jubilee Celebration brought together educators and students from Catholic schools and technical colleges across the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.
The event featured a variety of performances and activities by learners from their respective institutions.
Teachers and educators from all Catholic education institutions attending their Jubilee
St Maria Goretti Girls Catholic Secondary School leaders showcasing their talents to spice up the celebration
The Globe Action to End Smoking on Wednesday handed over a state-of-the-art K5 billion Global Action Transformation Center to the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), as part of the Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) Project
The facility, funded by Global Action to End Smoking, is expected to revolutionize soil health monitoring for smallholder farmers across Malawi.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, CAT Executive Director Macleod Nkhoma said the initiative marks a major milestone in empowering farmers to understand the health of their soil.
Nkhoma highlighted that most of the soils in the country are degraded therefore there is need for farmers to know the state of their soil in order to find means of improving them for higher yields.
“What our farmers have to know is that our soils are degraded therefore this is an opportunity for them to bring their soils for test for improvement.” he said.
LUANAR Vice Chancellor Professor Emmanuel Kaunda welcomed the development, promising to ensure the facility reaches farmers in all corners of the country.
Kaunda added that they will make sure that the prices for the soil test are affordable so that even a local farmer can manage to pay for the service.
“We will make sure that the prices are reasonable so that even a local farmer can be able to pay,” he assured.
In Her remarks, Global Action to End Smoking executive board chairperson Pamera Parizek, says the project has assisted a lot in as far as crop diversification is concerned.
Parizek described the laboratory as an indication of the impact the project will bring to a local Malawian farmer.
The new centre is expected to support research, training, and extension services with hopes to boost Malawi’s agricultural transformation agenda.
The Apostolic Nuncio with Malawi bishops and other dignitaries, celebrating a key milestone
The Catholic Church in Malawi has on 22 September 2025, marked a significant milestone with the laying of the foundation stone for a new Apostolic Nunciature in Lilongwe.
The historic ceremony was presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Malawi and Zambia, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, and attended by a host of dignitaries.
Archbishop Gian Luca Perici unveils the commemorative pillar
The President of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Right Reverend Martin Mtumbuka, described the event as a key step in establishing a permanent base for the Holy See’s diplomatic mission in the country.
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Bishop Martin Anwell Mtumbuka (President of MCCB) at the ceremony
In his remarks, his Lordship revealed that the project had been delayed for years due to financial issues and uncertainty from the Holy See regarding the need for a dedicated representative in Malawi.
Bishop Mtumbuka speaks on the significance of the new Nunciature as a new chapter for the Catholic faithful in the country
Bishop Mtumbuka expressed profound gratitude to Pope Francis for authorizing and approving the project. He also thanked previous apostolic nuncios, the Government of Malawi for donating the plot of land decades ago, and all the parishioners and faithful who were present.
“May God bless this project; may God bless the Catholic Church in Malawi and God bless our country,” he prayed.
Adding a government perspective, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mwayiwawo Polepole, stated his excitement, emphasizing that the new Nunciature would “cement” diplomatic relations between Malawi and the Holy See.
Representing the government, Mwayiwawo Polepole of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaks on the strengthening diplomatic ties between Malawi and the Holy See
He noted that having a resident representative would ensure Malawi “will always be in their mind.”
Polepole highlighted the significance of the event, given that the land was granted to the Holy See over 50 years ago, and expressed enthusiasm that Malawi would no longer be accredited from another country in the region.
Building a new chapter for the Church in Malawi. Archbishop Gian Luca Perici participates in the foundation stone-laying ceremony
Representing the construction team, Jose A. Da Costa, Managing Director of Terrastone Construction Limited, assured the public that the project would be completed in under two years.
Jose A. Da Costa, Managing Director of Terrastone Construction, shares details on the project’s timeline and commitment to eco-friendly practices
He also committed to an eco-friendly approach, stating that an environmental study had been conducted to ensure the preservation of indigenous trees on the site. According to Da Costa, the client’s instructions were to save all possible trees, and the materials used for construction will also be eco-friendly.
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, lays a symbolic brick for the new Nunciature
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Archbishop George Desmond Tambala (Lilongwe) at the ceremony
The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, with Bishop Martin Anwell Mtumbuka (President of MCCB) at the ceremony
