By Rose Cross Mahorya

Mzuzu, August 16, Mana: Catholic Relief Services (CRS) with funding from European Union (EU) awarded best performing structures in Afikepo nutrition programme in Mzimba North District on Wednesday.

Speaking at Chisangano Primary School in the area of Traditional Authority Mtwalo, CRS coordinator for Mzimba North and Nkhatabay districts, Jane Mwamlima said the awards are a way of encouraging communities to continue hygiene practices and proper feeding habits even after the project ends.

“We are here to give out these rewards as a way of encouraging you to hold on to the practices that the project has taught you.

“We hope that the livestock will be well taken care of so that your families have a stable source of animal food. The rewards in form of woodlots will help the replacement of trees while the orchards will be a source of fruits,” she said.

Group Village Headman Chakhazika Ngwira whose Munyetezi Care Group was amongst the winners of K450,000 worth of livestock appreciated CRS for the rewards stating that it is a good incentive to reinforce healthy eating habits in communities.

“Ever since Afikepo came to our areas cases of malnutrition have drastically reduced. I am very certain that the giving out of these rewards will encourage those who are already doing well and those who were relaxing on the practices.

“As a leader, I can assure you that these resources will be used effectively to fulfill the purpose for which they were given for,” he said.

Representing District Commissioner’s office, Mzimba North Director of Administration, Mercy Ghambi appreciated the project for helping alleviate nutrition challenges in the district.

The giving out of the rewards will be done in four quarters  till December 2023 when Afikepo nutrition program will end.