Bishop Witmos

Mangochi, September 25, Mana: Communities in Mangochi have hailed the government’s Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP), describing it as a game-changer for their livelihood, citing a shift from abject poverty to a better livelihood.

Mangochi District Council through the social welfare office this week distributed August cash to the SCTP beneficiaries in the district where the recipients praised the programme for bringing a positive impact on most households that are now economically empowered.

One beneficiary, 76-year-old Benard Chande from Traditional Authority Chowe, said he has something to show after enrolling as a beneficiary.

"Before enrolling into the programme I was struggling to make ends meet. I received cash monthly and I managed to buy goats and have multiplied to 10 such that l am earning a living out of livestock raising” Chande said, adding that the increased number of goats will also compel him to improve his livelihood further.

Jemier Daudi of Traditional Authority Chilipa also commended the government for introducing the programme in her area, saying the SCTP brought hope to her family who lived in abject poverty.

“I am very grateful to the government for this life-changing initiative. My household income has improved such that l am now able to purchase essential items such as food and clothes as well as paying school fees for my children,” she said.

Principal Social Welfare Officer for Mangochi, Patrick Cholopi said the number of beneficiary households in the district has increased following a recent retargeting exercise.

“After retargeting, the number of beneficiary households has increased to 28,366 from 18,894 in the previous cycles,

“These are ultra-poor and labour-constrained households, including the elderly, people with disabilities, as well as single-headed households," he said.