What started as a mustard seed at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Kapiri (Mchinji) Parish in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe has now blossomed into a thriving initiative.

In 2015, the Carmelite Missionary Sisters, through support from Active Africa, introduced the Eco Women Project in response to Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si.

Starting with just 17 women, the project has expanded across Kapiri communities, empowering women to become self-reliant in various aspects of family and community life.

On 21 October 2026, jubilation filled Group Village Head Bauti under Senior Chief Kapondo in Kapiri, as Eco Women celebrated its 10th anniversary.

The event was graced by representatives from Active Africa Organisation from Spain, who witnessed firsthand the growth and impact of the project.

Speaking during the celebration, Active Africa Director Teresa Galolela expressed satisfaction with the sisters’ implementation of the program, noting the remarkable transformation in women’s lives.

She reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to continue supporting the initiative so it can reach even wider communities.

 

Representing the Carmelite Missionaries’ Mother Superior, Sister Innocencia Chabuka urged communities to apply the knowledge gained through Eco Women to improve family livelihoods and break free from poverty.

She also encouraged parents to support their children’s education and to inspire them to respond to God’s call to religious vocations.

“Parents, allow your children to become Sisters so they too can serve others in the future. You have seen how these sisters are helping your communities here in Kapiri Parish, let your children respond to God’s call,” she said.

 

Sister Modester Nkhata, Director of the Eco Women Project at Kapiri Parish, highlighted the transformation of many households through training in adult literacy, environmental care, product skills, and value addition.

She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Active Africa for their financial support, which has enabled the project to reach this milestone.

 

Senior Chief Kapondo also commended the sisters and Active Africa for their guidance and support, which have helped women improve their lives and become self-reliant.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Nofita Robert, shared her testimony,

“Before Eco Women Project, my life was hard as I always depended on my husband to provide for our family. But through Eco Women, I have learned many skills. Now I am able to support my family through small businesses.”

 

Since its inception in 2015, the Eco Women Project has reached more than 1500 women across three Traditional Authorities in Kapiri.

Eco Women now operates in six centers, imparting women with knowledge in adult literacy, product development, environmental conservation, value addition, and family welfare.

By Titus Jata Phiri