By Andrew Mkonda
Lilongwe, February 25, Mana: Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) commonly known as Mtukula Pakhomo beneficiaries in Lilongwe district have applauded government for introducing the safety net initiative that has assisted them to be empowered economically.
Lubeya Kasomkanji, a resident of Kavundula village in the area of Traditional Authority Malili said the wages he receives from the programme have assisted him to venture into tearoom business in his area.
Speaking Monday during a media tour, Kasomkanji hailed the programme describing it as a lifesaver.
“I received my wages of five months in arrears, that gave me an opportunity of starting a tearoom business which is generating a lot of profits and has completely changed my life and that of my family,” he said.
Kasomkanji further said through his tearoom business he has managed to build a house with iron sheets and bought a garden as source of his income for his family.
Another beneficiary, Dorothy Zamuka, from Mkwerera village also ventured into tearoom business after receiving her dues in arrears which she said has assisted her to build a house with iron sheets, upgrading from her previous grass thatched house.
Both Kasomkanji and Zamuka have since urged other beneficiaries to be using the money they get from SCTP for intended purpose so that they become self-reliant financially.
Lilongwe District Social Welfare Officer, Responsible for Social Cash Transfer Programme, Sarah Chimodzi said it is encouraging that many beneficiaries are able to invest in livestock, such as chicken, goats and pigs.
Chimodzi further said the programme has also assisted in reducing negative risks such as withdrawal of children from school and absenteeism among others.
The programme in Lilongwe district is being managed by Malawi Government with support from the World Bank and it targets ultra-poor and labour-constrained households by providing them support in form of cash.
The programme covers 23 Traditional Leaders and has a total number of 29, 512 beneficiaries.
