By Priscilla Phiri

Lilongwe, June 27, Mana:  European Union together with the German Cooperation through KfW, has donated six vehicles valued at EUR 290,000 (K554,000,000) to the Ministry of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare to boost its Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) locally known as ‘Mtukula Pakhomo’ activities in Mulanje, Phalombe, Mzimba and Mchinji districts.

The donation was made on Thursday, June 27, at a handover ceremony which took place at the Ministry's headquarters in Lilongwe.

Speaking at the ceremony, the EU ambassador to Malawi Rune Skinnebach expressed his excitement for the handover saying the gesture demonstrates the strong partnership between EU, German and the Malawi government.

"These vehicles are another token of the strong bonds of partnership and cooperation between Team Europe and the Government of Malawi," he said.

 Skinnebach also expressed optimism about the impact the vehicles will have on the SCTP's success and the lives they will touch.

“The EU is proud to build a more inclusive, equitable and resilient society and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact that these vehicles will have on the programme,” he said.

Receiving the vehicles on behalf of the Ministry, the Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support and partnership from the EU and the German KfW.

 She said, "The vehicles we are receiving today are more than just a means of transport; they symbolise hope, accessibility, and a brighter future for countless families who depend on our social cash transfer programme for their survival and dignity."

The SCTP provides essential relief to vulnerable families, enabling them to meet basic food consumption needs through cash support. The continuous cooperation between the EU, the Germany government (through KFW), and Malawi has been instrumental in driving positive change in various communities.

The Ministry extends heartfelt thanks to the EU and the Federal Government of Germany for their generous donation, which will significantly enhance the SCTP's implementation.

Also present at the event was the German Ambassador to Malawi, Ute König among other delegates.