By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, May 29, Mana: In a bid to promote socio-economic empowerment among women in Salima District, JCM Power has trained over 30 women in soap-making skills under its Livelihood Restoration Programme (LRP).

The initiative is part of the company’s broader mission to support sustainable development as it operates as an Independent Power Producer (IPP) in Malawi.

Speaking during supervision of the training on Wednesday, at Kamzimbe village in the area of Senior Chief Kalonga, Trade Officer for Salima, Humphrey Phiri emphasized the importance of such skills in addressing challenges that women face.

“Malawi imports more than it exports. We need to improve skills, especially among women, to empower them economically. Skills development is vital the knowledge gained here will significantly enhance these women’s livelihoods,” Phiri said.

He said his office will continue working closely with the women until they reach their full potential in soap-making skills and also identify better markets for them.

JCM Power’s Community Liaison Officer for Salima, Levison Masamba, reiterated the company’s commitment to inclusive development.

“We believe in driving social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Working hand in hand with the District Council, we aim to ensure our business operations benefit the surrounding communities,” he said.

Masamba said the women gained practical skills in soap making and product moulding.

The training cost K 3 million with K 2 million allocated to training activities and K 1 million for the provision of essential materials to the participants.

A beneficiary from Sadzu Village, Nelliya Chiphiko, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.

“We are thankful to JCM Power for imparting these skills. What we have learned will go a long way in transforming our lives and our communities. We intend to use these skills to start small businesses and support our families,” she said.

The training is expected to create sustainable income streams for the women involved, reducing dependency and promoting economic resilience within the targeted villages.

The four-day training, involved 31 women from Sadzu and Waya villages under Traditional Authorities Salima and Kalonga respectively.

The women were drawn from two Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) groups under Makande and Nanjoka.