By Hastings Yobe

Lilongwe, August 15, Mana - Deputy Minister of Education, Nancy Chawola Mdooko, has urged the Lipiri community to build on the successes of World Vision's 18-year project, which came to a close on Thursday.

"Let us take the lessons learned from this program and apply them to other communities across Malawi. Let us continue to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable, to empower them, and to create an environment conducive to growth and prosperity," Mdooko said.

The deputy minister commended World Vision's work in supporting community development, citing improved healthcare, education, economic, and infrastructure development as key achievements.

"The Lipiri Area Project has been a testament to the power of collaboration," she added.

World Vision Malawi National Director, Francis Dube, reflected on the project's successes despite numerous challenges since its inception in 2006.

 "We've seen significant improvement in access to safe water, healthcare, and education," Dube said.

The project's education component led to the construction of Mdika Girls' Hostel, easing the hardships faced by girls who previously had to travel long distances to school, often experiencing abuse and early marriages.

Senior Chief Kayembe acknowledged the project's impact in her community, particularly in educating young people and reducing child marriages.

 "The issue of child marriage was a huge problem before World Vision's intervention, but today, parents are aware that child marriages are illegal, and children have a right to education," Kayembe said.

The Lipiri Area Project has achieved significant milestones, including a surge in prompt and effective treatment of diarrhoea diseases among under-five children from 68.9% to 100%, a substantial increase in school enrolment and attendance with 89.1% of children now in structured learning institutions, and improved access to education services with 83% of households reporting satisfaction, up from 27% in 2013.