Tag Archive for: Poverty in Malawi

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Health Improvements in Malawi: A Revised Health Care Budget

Health Improvements in MalawiMalawi is a small country near the Eastern coast of Africa, nestled between Tanzania, Mozambique and Zambia. The nation found freedom from Britain on July 6, 1964 and has since become an agricultural nation. The country itself is nearly 46,000 square miles, boasting mountains and lakes. The most well-known lake is Lake Malawi, the ninth-largest lake in the world and the third-largest in Africa. As of 2025, Malawi has a population of 19 million and an expanded health budget, leading to significant improvements in the country’s health care system.

Why Did the Budget Increase Now?

Several organizations focused on financial assistance and health financing supported the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs in drafting Malawi’s 2025/2026 health budget. Their involvement extended beyond health and contributed to shaping the entire national budget. Key organizations included the Partners in Population and Development Africa Regional Office (PPD-ARO), the Advancing Domestic Health Financing (ADHF) project, well-equipped civil society organizations (CSOs) and the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP).

Another factor behind Malawi’s increased health budget is the Lusaka Agenda, launched on Universal Health Coverage Day, after a 14-month global consultative process. It outlines five strategic shifts to better align external support with a single national plan, budget and monitoring framework. Indeed, as the foundation of Malawi’s new budget, it is expected to drive sustainable health improvements nationwide.

The Scale of the Health Budget Increase

The overall health care budget for Malawi for 2025 and 2026 has risen by 8.5%, from $421 million to $456 million. Funding for family planning commodities rose by 10%, increasing from about $404,000 to $445,000. Direct Facility Financing saw a sharp 150% rise, from around $115,000 to $288,000.

The government also pledged roughly $11.5 million to build 55 new health posts. Meanwhile, the national drug budget expanded by 25%, reaching nearly $40.4 million and the vaccine budget grew substantially by 150%, climbing from about $577,000 to $1.44 million.

What New Programs Will Be Added?

According to the AFIDEP, the newly improved budget will focus on sexual and reproductive wellness, family planning and strengthening things on the administrative side. However, these improvements are not the only steps being taken; general health care in Malawi will also improve. These efforts will assist people wanting to start families and keep themselves safe.

Other Ways the Increased Budget Will Help

The increase in Malawi’s health budget is expected to improve health care nationwide. Young people are mobilizing to learn more about health issues, equipping themselves to make informed decisions and influence how the system serves them.

Furthermore, through the READY Movement, an organization focused on youth empowerment, young people are being educated about HIV prevention and the funding gaps in this area of the new budget. They are better positioned to influence their communities and advocate for stronger health care responses by raising awareness.

– Zoe Felder

Zoe is based in Charlotte, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Clinics in Malawi: How Off-Grid Power Is Saving Lives

Solar Clinics in Malawi: How Off-Grid Power Is Saving Lives in the Poorest Communities In some of Malawi’s most remote health posts — where fewer than 4% of rural facilities are connected to the national grid — women once gave birth by candle or torchlight. In 2025, with solar-powered “suitcases” and larger photovoltaic systems, these solar clinics in Malawi can refrigerate vaccines, light delivery rooms at night and power vital diagnostics around the clock.

Bringing Light to Rural Clinics

Malawi still faces stark energy inequities: only 11% of the population has grid access (4% in rural areas) and 13% of public health care facilities have no electricity, while another 32% rely solely on unreliable diesel generators. Unreliable power severely hampers vaccine storage, nighttime deliveries and emergency care—contributing to one of the world’s highest maternal mortality ratios.

In August 2024, We Care Solar launched its Light Every Birth initiative in partnership with Malawi’s Ministry of Health and the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Momentum 1-Tiyeni Project. By mid-2025, teams had installed 800 solar suitcases — compact panels, batteries and LED lights — in rural clinics across all three regions and 28 districts. These units provide at least 12 hours of reliable light per night, power fetal monitors and charge mobile devices for telemedicine calls.

Complementing this, the United Nations Development Program’s (UNDP) Solar for Health programme has supplied and installed larger photovoltaic systems at secondary clinics and district hospitals. A 2020 feasibility study reported that 13% of Malawi’s 568 public health care facilities lacked electricity and another 32% depended on diesel, while only 21% had solar systems; UNDP estimates a full solar installation yields a 100% return on investment within 2 to 3.5 years through fuel savings and reduced maintenance costs.

Measurable Health Impacts

At more than 100 rural health centers, We Care Solar and the Judith Neilson Foundation support safer deliveries for at least 80,000 women annually. Midwives report that nighttime delivery complications have dropped by 60% since lights were installed and vaccine cold rooms maintain the required 2–8 °C range, reducing stock loss from 15% to under 1%.

A 2022 report by SolarAid and Mzuzu University found that 76% of off-grid solar systems in Malawian clinics fail within two years because of a lack of maintenance. Their joint pilot introduced local technician training and remote monitoring, achieving 90% system uptime after one year. Scaling this model, UNDP’s capacity-building component trains community-based technicians — 50% women — to install, maintain and repair both Solar Suitcases and larger photovoltaic (PV) arrays.

Sustainable Partnerships and Policy

In late 2023, Malawi’s Ministry of Health adopted a sustainability plan: by 2030, all public clinics will transition to hybrid solar–grid systems, with district health offices responsible for preventive maintenance. This aligns with the national target of 70% off-grid electrification by 2030.

International partners—USAID, UNDP, GIZ and the European Union (EU)—have coordinated through a technical working group to standardize equipment lists, set up long-term supplier agreements and develop an energy-as-a-service model that removes upfront costs for clinics. Community volunteer committees oversee solar equipment maintenance, ensuring that local voices guide the programme’s evolution.

A Model for Low-Income Regions

Off-grid solar clinics in Malawi reveal how decentralized renewable energy can transform health care in low-income settings. Indeed, by combining compact solar suitcases for basic lighting and power, larger photovoltaic systems for refrigeration and diagnostics and strong local capacity-building, clinics gain the reliability once thought impossible beyond the grid. As rural facilities report improved maternal outcomes, reduced vaccine spoilage and greater staff retention, this model offers a scalable blueprint for other countries with similar energy and health care challenges.

– Alexander Broermann

Alexander is based in Frankfurt, Germany and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Public Transportation and Health Access in Malawi

Health Access in MalawiMalawi is one of the least developed countries in the world, ranking 172nd out of 193 on the UNDP’s Human Development Index. Diseases such as AIDS and tuberculosis are rampant and account for a disproportionate number of deaths in the country. As disease is such an issue, accessible health care access in Malawi is a must. Unfortunately, the majority of the population struggles to access these necessary facilities.

Lacking Transportation

Malawi has a population of around 21 million, the majority of whom live in rural areas. Roads lack proper infrastructure and accidents are frequent, and the majority of citizens lack the funds to buy a vehicle.  There are railroads, but they are often insufficient both in convenience and cost. Bikes and taxes are present, but unsafe and costly, so most Malawians must walk to their destinations. Walking is problematic as well, as there is little to no sidewalk present and destinations can take hours to get to. Transportation is even more of a struggle in rural areas, which are often lacking in taxis.

Lacking transportation extends beyond daily activities and into public health care access in Malawi as well. As the population is largely rural, and there is a major lack of funding for health infrastructure, the majority of Malawians must travel long distances to get medical attention.

In 2016, the average travel time between an individual’s home and the nearest health centre was one hour, and 2.5 hours to get to a central hospital. In 2016, roughly 20,000 Malawians died of AIDS and roughly 10,000 of tuberculosis.

Improvement and Aid

Although the state of transportation in Malawi is not ideal by any means, it is not an impossible issue. The South Eastern European Journal of National Health shows that there are multiple paths to improving the standard, such as introducing community funds and increasing the number of hospitals. No solution is simple, however, due to Malawi’s poor economy and the sheer scope of the work that needs to be done.

There are various charity groups that serve Malawi, aiming to improve the state of its health system.  Riders for Health Malawi has been serving Malawi by transporting vital test samples and medical waste since 2011. They have also established a driving school in an attempt to lower the disproportionately high accident rate.

CARE is a group that has a broader approach to aid, but still impacts health services. It provides both access to health services as well as education about health. It also supports hygiene and sanitation, and acts as a major uplifter for women in poverty.

Orant Charities Africa employs highly trained, fully Malawian staff and focuses on health care access.  It established the Kasese Health Care Centre, which acts as the only source for clean medical aid for miles, and provides ambulances when critical patients require higher care. It also sends mobile clinics to rural areas, which struggle most to get care when needed, and has recently renovated its maternity ward, which provides private and clean care for mothers in labour.

Final Remarks

Transportation in Malawi is in a poor state. This affects everything from buying groceries to medical emergencies. With poor funding and lacking infrastructure, establishing proper health connections is a challenge. It is a challenge that can be triumphed, however, and with the aid of those willing to help triumph is certain.

– Cayle Harrison

Cayle is based in Columbia, SC, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Investing in Girls’ Education in Malawi

Girls' Education in MalawiIn Malawi, many girls, especially those living in rural areas, face steep challenges in staying in school. While more girls are enrolling in primary education than ever, many are forced to drop out long before graduation. Early marriage, poverty, long and often unsafe journeys to school and a lack of menstrual hygiene products are just some of the obstacles that stand in their way. Nearly 42% of girls in Malawi are married before their 18th birthday, which often ends their education early. These barriers not only limit their potential but also deepen cycles of poverty and inequality that affect entire communities.

CAMFED: Scholarships and Mentorship

The Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) has made significant strides in Malawi by providing holistic support for girls’ secondary education. Since its launch, CAMFED Malawi has supported more than 646,000 students by covering school fees, uniforms, books and menstrual supplies. It has also trained 4,710 students in government schools with essential services and mentorship through its Learner Guide model.

CAMFED fosters long-term educational engagement through its alum network, the CAMFED Association. The association reached nearly 110,000 students in 2023 with mentoring, life-skills development and leadership training. These initiatives are directly credited with boosting retention and completion rates among rural girls.

Let Girls Learn Initiative

In Malawi, the Let Girls Learn initiative, backed by USAID and the U.S. Department of State, led to focused efforts that helped more girls continue their education beyond primary school. One of the key projects, called Apatseni Mwayi Atsikana Aphunzire (AMAA), was carried out by Save the Children and Concern Worldwide across five districts. The program built girl-friendly school facilities, supported girls’ transitions to secondary school and offered life-skills training to boost their confidence and resilience.

Globally, the Let Girls Learn program contributed $25 million to support locally driven education programs in 13 countries, including Malawi. These efforts addressed major obstacles such as school fees, period poverty and child marriage while promoting leadership, inclusion and long-term access to learning.

National Strategy and Policy Reform

The government of Malawi has prioritized gender equity in education through its National Strategy for Girls’ Education. The project integrates school access with child protection, gender-based violence prevention and reproductive health education. The strategy supports the re-enrollment of young mothers, the enforcement of anti-child marriage laws and teacher training to create safe and inclusive learning environments.

Implemented with organizations such as UNICEF and the Global Partnership for Education, this policy framework addresses the systemic and social causes of girls’ dropout rates.

Building a Brighter Future

The combined impact of local nonprofits, international partnerships and national education reforms is reshaping the landscape for girls in Malawi. Programs like CAMFED have supported thousands of students. A recent World Bank report highlights that investing in girls’ education is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty, improve health outcomes and promote gender equality.

Educated girls are more likely to delay marriage, have healthier families and contribute to economic growth. By supporting comprehensive approaches that combine schooling with health, mentorship and legal protections, Malawi is laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future.

– Joseph Hasty

Joseph is in Winter Park, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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MicroLoan Foundation Malawi: Helping Women Escape Poverty

MicroLoan Foundation MalawiIn Malawi, where 70% of the population lives on less than $2.15 a day, poverty is not just a statistic—it is a daily reality. Access to traditional banking services remains limited, especially for the 90% of Malawians living in rural areas. Women are disproportionately affected, but one organization is working to change that. Since 2002, the MicroLoan Foundation Malawi has shown that small loans, combined with training and trust, can spark meaningful change.

Women Leading the Way in Malawi

All of MicroLoan Foundation Malawi’s clients are women, most of whom lack access to formal financial institutions. In a country where commercial banks tend to favor men and urban enterprises, this women-first model is intentional. It recognizes that investing in women borrowers contributes to improved household well-being. Women typically demonstrate higher loan repayment rates and contribute more of their income to household needs and prioritize their children’s education and health.

The foundation pairs small, sustainable loans with extensive business and financial literacy training. Every client receives personalized guidance from a loan and training officer, who supports an average of 419 clients. With an average loan size of just £75, women gain the tools to begin a path out of poverty. In addition to financial support, the foundation encourages peer-to-peer mentoring within loan groups.

These networks provide social support and shared learning, allowing women to exchange advice and build confidence as entrepreneurs. Many clients launch small businesses ranging from tailoring to food vending, generating consistent income and expanding their community influence. The ripple effect often extends beyond financial improvement, with women gaining leadership roles in local cooperatives or village committees. These changes contribute to shifting perceptions around gender roles and create new opportunities for future generations.

From Farming to Financial Freedom in Malawi

Many of MicroLoan’s clients are smallholder farmers whose livelihoods are vulnerable to climate shocks and market instability. To support them, the foundation offers agricultural and irrigation loans, allowing women to invest in farming inputs, equipment and resilience. The results include increased crop yields and higher incomes, which in turn support better nutrition, education access—especially for daughters—and long-term financial stability. Since 2022, the foundation has also scaled up digital literacy by training clients across all branches to use mobile money platforms. By the end of 2024, more than 85% of loan repayments and 30% of disbursements were processed via mobile money. This shift helps improve financial control and safety for rural women.

Toward Long-Term Impact

Microfinance continues to support economic participation in underserved communities. In Malawi, targeted lending and training are equipping women with tools to improve household stability and contribute to local development. As MicroLoan Foundation Malawi expands its reach, its model offers insights for addressing economic exclusion through scalable, community-based solutions. Long-term success potentially depends on partnerships that extend beyond lending—such as linking women entrepreneurs to markets, improving access to insurance and integrating climate-resilience training. These additions could enhance economic security and help ensure that microfinance remains responsive to evolving local needs.

– Linnéa Matlack

Linnéa is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Empowering Malawian Farmers: AI-Driven Agricultural Solutions

Empowering Malawian FarmersIn rural Malawi, where smallholder farming supports the livelihoods of more than 80% of the population, a new technological tool is empowering Malawian farmers to overcome challenges that once seemed insurmountable. The app Ulangizi, which means “Advice” in the local Chichewa language, is transforming how farmers access critical agricultural knowledge. By harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and leveraging the widespread use of WhatsApp, Ulangizi is providing essential support to some of the world’s most vulnerable farmers.

The Need for Innovation in Malawian Agriculture

Unpredictable weather patterns, limited resources and a lack of timely access to agricultural expertise deeply impact agriculture in Malawi. The country’s farmers often face issues such as crop diseases, pest infestations and the devastation of climate disasters like Cyclone Freddy, which displaced more than 100,000 people in 2023. The loss of crops, including the crucial soy harvest, left farmers struggling to recover.

In this context, Opportunity International, a Chicago-based nonprofit, saw an opportunity to use AI to offer farmers practical solutions. Ulangizi, the app it developed, connects farmers directly to expert advice, offering them the guidance they need to manage everyday challenges and the unpredictable effects of climate instability.

AI at the Service of Farmers

Ulangizi functions through WhatsApp, a platform already popular in many parts of the world, including Malawi. This accessibility allows farmers to interact with the app through simple messages and receive tailored advice in their native language. The app uses AI tools, including data from ChatGPT and the Malawian government’s agricultural manual, to diagnose crop and livestock problems and suggest solutions.

For example, farmers can take a photo of a sick plant or animal, send it via WhatsApp and receive immediate feedback on the issue and how to address it. In one instance, a Malawian farmer used Ulangizi to identify and treat a health issue with her pigs, preventing further losses. This quick response is invaluable, as traditionally, farmers had to wait days or even weeks, for government agricultural extension workers to visit.

Addressing the Challenges of Rural Connectivity

While Ulangizi is empowering Malawian farmers, it also faces several challenges. In many rural areas, such as Ndodo, smartphones are scarce, with one device sometimes shared among 150 people. Connectivity can also be a significant barrier, as mobile network coverage in these areas is limited and data costs remain prohibitive for many farmers.

However, the nonprofit has designed Ulangizi to work on basic phones, ensuring that even those without access to advanced smartphones can benefit from the service. Opportunity International is also working to overcome these connectivity challenges by collaborating with local networks to improve access to affordable data.

Building Resilience

Malawi’s smallholder farmers are particularly vulnerable to climate-related disasters. In addition to cyclone damage, farmers often face erratic rainfall, droughts and soil degradation. Ulangizi helps farmers build resilience by providing knowledge on better agricultural practices, pest control and disease prevention.

With Ulangizi, farmers can make informed decisions about when to plant, what crops to grow and how to manage soil health. By increasing access to this knowledge, the app empowers farmers to improve yields, reduce losses and ultimately increase their income, making agriculture a more sustainable and reliable livelihood.

A Global Model for Smallholder Farmers

The success of Ulangizi in Malawi has caught the attention of other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, where smallholder farmers face similar challenges. Opportunity International plans to expand the app’s reach, building on the feedback collected during its pilot phase.

Globally, smallholder farmers produce a significant portion of the world’s food. Yet, they often yield far less than their potential due to limited access to resources, knowledge and technology. Ulangizi’s AI-powered approach could help bridge this gap, improving productivity and contributing to global food security.

– Georgia de Gidlow

Georgia is based in Watford, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Concern Worldwide in Malawi Takes Action

Concern Worldwide Takes Action in Malawi Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, sees more than 70% of its population living in extreme poverty. After gaining independence in 1964, the Malawian government implemented a Poverty Monitoring System in 1994 to address rising poverty levels. Since then, various nongovernmental organizations have dedicated their efforts to improving the health and livelihoods of Malawians. Concern Worldwide, established in 2002, plays a crucial role in addressing multiple issues that contribute to poverty in Malawi.

Poverty in Malawi

A variety of challenges cause poverty among Malawians, including extreme weather variations, difficulty accessing globally traded goods, inequalities in food production and low access to health facilities. These issues result in an increased cost of living that is disproportionately impacting women and rural communities. A study from the National Library of Health describes the connection between income and the health status of families in rural Malawi. Research reveals that by increasing the overall income level by 10%, the average health status and level of well-being of Malawians improves by up to 1.2%. Concern Worldwide understands the crucial role the economy plays in health and poverty levels and takes action from multiple angles. 

Economic Impact

Research from the World Bank explains how economic growth directly affects mortality rates and life expectancy in developing countries. Additional factors such as income and income distribution, food prices, education and access to trading and transportation are primarily impacting the 80% of Malawians living in rural areas. Improving economic conditions requires changes in multiple areas of society by increasing the minimum wage, education and the household division of labor. 

RAISE Program

Concern Worldwide has taken action to improve the economic stability of the country by educating community members. The Raising Assets and Income for a Sustainable Environment in Malawi (RAISE) program, funded by the EU and Irish Aid, provides individuals from four districts in Malawi with a Business Skills Training course to encourage small businesses. This training, offered in Chikwawa, Mwanza, Neno and Nsanje, focuses on business management, risk vs reward and budget organization. Despite navigating literacy barriers, participants claim to have learned valuable skills to increase stability in sales and organization. Not only are entrepreneurs provided the knowledge to start their businesses, but they are also provided with a capital-funded transfer to start their enterprise. 

Health

In particular, rural Malawi’s low-income households, lacking access to medical resources or transportation to health centers, contribute to the lowest mortality rate. Researchers in the National Library of Medicine suggest public health and disease as the primary causes of decreasing mortality rates in struggling countries. Flooding furthers the spread of diseases and blocks roads, preventing access to centers.

To combat this, the organization is increasing the use of accessible technology to aid those who cannot make a trip to a clinic. Chipatala cha pa foni is a mobile hotline where young women and potential mothers can ask questions and hear advice from health care professionals. This program offers potentially life-saving opportunities to women struggling with their pregnancy or overall health. The organization is also implementing entertaining, educational methods to teach young girls about sexual health and reproduction. This helps younger populations be more aware of concerns such as AIDS, HIV, teen pregnancy and early marriage. 

Environmental Relief

Malawi relies heavily on agriculture to support its economy and feed its population. This makes the country dependent on the stability and predictability of the weather. However, Malawi is among the top 10 countries in the world impacted the most by turbulent weather changes. For instance, periods of high rainfall increase the spread of malaria through mosquitoes and flooding makes access to clean water more difficult, increasing the spread of cholera. Concern Worldwide combats agricultural disturbances by implementing Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques. CSA is a form of conservation agriculture that prioritizes the land and its sustainability in the future regardless of unpredictable weather concerns.

Specifically, Concern was one of the first organizations to respond to Cyclone Freddy in 2023. The storm damaged more than 50,000 homes, destroying crops, roads, powerlines and livestock. In response, Concern Worldwide provided 45 camps for displaced families throughout South Malawi and sent blankets, mosquito nets and other supplies to impacted areas. Emergency funds were allocated to 2,000 families forced to rebuild their lives. 

Women

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has made commonly received goods unaffordable throughout Malawi. This increases the overall cost of living and contributes to poverty in an already struggling environment. Concern Worldwide analyzes the rising economic concerns through a gendered lens, considering how these challenges impact women. Malawian women especially lack access to financial responsibility, credit centers and household decision-making, which makes them vulnerable to inequalities in supplies and food production. By encouraging women to have a greater role in household decision-making and implementing a division of labor, families are better prepared to recover from disaster in the future.

A 2022 event featuring a panel discussion on the gendered impacts of the increasing cost of living in Malawi explains the economic and social issues women face and what is being done to address them. The discussion outlines the necessity of adopting a genderless approach to social protection systems to ensure women have equal access and support. The emphasis is on how prioritizing access to social protection programs for women in need can benefit the community long-term by reducing factors that contribute to poverty. In addition to encouraging women to enter the workforce, raising the minimum wage is considered an option to combat increasing costs. This would benefit the daily livelihoods of the workforce and boost the economy in life-changing ways.

Overall Impact

Despite various adversities, Malawi’s stability is gradually improving with the help of Concern Worldwide. This life-changing NGO offers aid and assists communities in protecting and rebuilding their livelihoods. By educating the workforce, supporting women, providing environmental and health care services and backing micro-businesses, Concern Worldwide empowers Malawi to support itself and require less aid in the future.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 NGOs in Malawi Successfully Addressing Poverty

NGOs in MalawiMalawi, a small country in southeastern Africa, faces one of the highest poverty rates in the world, with more than 70% of its population living below the poverty line. This figure highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the various challenges of poverty, including health, education, agriculture, and clean water access. Several NGOs in Malawi are actively working to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life for the people.

MBF Lifesaver Clinics

The Medical Benevolence Foundation (MBF) focuses on maternal and child health through its Lifesaver Clinics in Malawi. It operates clinics through local churches and has a large community-based staff. One of its key locations opened in 1937, the Bembeke clinic serves more than 29,000 residents and delivers an average of 43 babies every month. By providing critical health care services, including prenatal care, vaccinations and health education, MBF aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. The organization’s outreach efforts not only enhance access to medical services but also educate local families about health and nutrition, fostering a healthier future for impoverished mothers and their children.

Hope4Malawi

Education is a core pillar of sustainable development, and Hope4Malawi is one of the NGOs in Malawi that focuses on enhancing educational access for children in rural areas. It has made significant investments in building schools and creating essential educational resources, such as libraries and feeding programs. By supporting students from primary school through to university level, Hope4Malawi creates a cultural hub of learning and support. The organization also integrates e-learning opportunities, allowing students to access a broader range of educational materials.

Hope4Malawi intends to build and provide supplies for 12 classrooms and three libraries before 2029 through a partnership with the Ministry of Education. The organization provides sponsorships and additional support that allow students to attend secondary education who would otherwise not be able to. As a result, enrollment and retention rates have increased, creating a generation equipped with the skills and credentials needed for future success.

The Hunger Project

The Hunger Project is one of the NGOs in Malawi that has been active since 1999. The organization addresses poverty through sustainable agriculture and food security initiatives. Recognizing that food insecurity is a significant contributor to poverty, the organization provides training on modern farming techniques and crop diversification. Utilizing the Epicenter Strategy, this organization mobilizes community members against hunger and poverty until they have become self-reliant.

By promoting community gardens and cooperative farming practices, The Hunger Project empowers local farmers to improve their yield and nutrition. The organization has helped reduce malnutrition in Malawi and has provided economy-boosting initiatives to workers, such as beekeeping. The initiative not only enhances food security for families but also fosters economic empowerment, enabling communities to thrive sustainably.

WaterAid Malawi

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, and WaterAid Malawi is at the forefront of efforts to improve water and sanitation across the country. Working in 14 towns and cities, WaterAid implements projects that provide clean water and educate communities about hygiene practices. This vital work significantly reduces the spread of waterborne diseases, improving overall health outcomes. This organization intends to provide clean water to the most impoverished communities by 2030 through a sustainable development program.

WaterAid works closely with the country’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector to provide innovative technology for new toilet and water collection systems. By ensuring access to clean water, WaterAid not only improves community health but also provides individuals with more time to devote to work or studies.

Concern Worldwide

Concern Worldwide has developed an approach to tackling poverty from multiple angles in Malawi. The organization provides food security initiatives, such as Food Systems for Food Security, prenatal care, and vaccination programs, alongside emergency response efforts during crises such as natural disasters. Concern has implemented agriculture programs that incorporate crop diversification, intercropping and other protective methods that prepare communities for unexpected weather fluctuations.

In a three-year program, Concern helped local farms raise annual harvest intake by 72%, improving the security and nutrition of community youth. By addressing immediate needs while also working on long-term solutions, Concern Worldwide helps build resilience within communities. Its lifestyle-focused approach ensures that families can survive as well as prepare for the future of the next generation.

Overall Impact

The work of these NGOs in Malawi illustrates the diverse and integrated approaches necessary to combat poverty in Malawi. By addressing health, education, agriculture, and water access, they demonstrate that sustainable development requires collaborative efforts that engage local communities. The ongoing commitment of these organizations plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Malawi.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Transforming Education: School Feeding Programs in Malawi

Transforming Education in Malawi: School Feeding ProgramsSchool feeding programs in Malawi, implemented by the World Food Program (WFP) in partnership with the Government of Malawi, have played a transformative role in improving educational outcomes, particularly in the country’s most food-insecure districts. Since its inception in 1999, the program has been targeting approximately 600,000 children across seven districts: Chikwawa, Dedza, Mangochi, Phalombe, Nsanje, Salima and Zomba.

Boosting School Enrollment and Attendance

Feeding programs have a clear and immediate effect on increasing school enrollment and attendance rates. In an environment where many families face food insecurity, the guarantee of a meal when children attend school provides a strong incentive for parents to send their children to school. Data from the WFP reveals that attendance rates in schools with feeding programs have improved from 77% to 92%, which is a drastic increase. Additionally, these programs have led to a 5% decline in absenteeism and a 2.9% reduction in dropout rates. 

Promoting Gender Equality

In Malawi, as in many developing countries, girls are generally disadvantaged when it comes to accessing education. Negative cultural practices, early marriages and domestic chores often make it difficult for girls to attend school. However, school feeding programs have made significant progress in bridging the gender gap in education. The implementation of the United Nations Joint Program on Girls’ Education, which includes the provision of varied school meals, has led to a notable decrease in girls’ dropout rates, from 15.6% to 5.2%. These programs help alleviate some of the economic burdens on families by ensuring that girls receive at least one meal a day, encouraging parents to support their daughters’ education. 

Enhancing Academic Performance

The benefits of school feeding programs extend beyond simply getting children to school—they also play a crucial role in enhancing students’ ability to learn and perform academically. Malnutrition, which affects cognitive development, is a significant barrier to learning. By providing nutritious meals, these programs help ensure that children are better able to focus, participate in class and retain information. 

Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Sustainability

Since 1999, Malawi’s school meals programs have continued to grow but have not been able to reach all students. The home-grown school feeding strategy has been important in promoting education and increasing economic welfare by providing nutritious food to 605,000 children while supporting 35,000 smallholder farmers. Supported by Norway, the European Union (EU) and Iceland, this investment reveals an impressive 20:1 return on every dollar, demonstrating progress in education, nutrition and local economies.

These achievements have not been without challenges. In developing countries like Malawi, reliance on international grants could create instability and unpredictability in operations. Many schools also face infrastructural issues, such as inadequate cooking facilities, lack of water supply and insufficient electricity for meal preparation and serving. The use of wood as fuel contributes to deforestation and other environmental problems. Despite the benefits of these programs, food insecurity remains a major barrier to both school enrollment and completion. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including long-term funding, improved infrastructure and the adoption of less environmentally harmful fuel sources.

Looking Forward

School feeding programs in Malawi have significantly improved education, boosting enrollment, attendance and academic performance, particularly for girls. The home-grown initiative further benefits local economies by supporting smallholder farmers. However, challenges like funding instability, poor infrastructure and environmental concerns remain. Addressing these ongoing issues can potentially sustain and expand the program’s impact, ensuring a brighter future for Malawi’s children and communities.

– Aneela Agha

Aneela is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Hope for Mothers in Malawi

Mothers in MalawiMalawi is one of the most impoverished countries in the world, with approximately 71% of the population earning less than $1.90 a day. Poverty hinders access to health care services, thus putting vulnerable, for example, pregnant women, at extreme risk and dimming the hope for mothers in Malawi. Additionally, there is a lack of awareness regarding obstetric complications, further increasing the risk for them.

Maternal Mortality in Malawi

These factors have resulted in extremely high maternal mortality in Malawi, with 381 deaths per 100,000 live births recorded in 2020. This rate ranks Malawi at number 25 out of 182 countries. However, the current statistics show an improvement from the previously recorded 439 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2017, which has increased the hopes of survival for the mothers in Malawi.

The Good News

The reduction in maternal mortality has been made possible due to the dedicated efforts of individuals, the government of Malawi and organizations like the United Nations (U.N.), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and more. Efforts to reduce maternal deaths and improve conditions for women are ongoing.

Various organizations and individuals are taking measures to enhance maternal health and achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.1, which aims to reduce maternal deaths to 70 per 100,000 live births or no more than 140 per 100,000 live births worldwide.

Two notable individuals in this regard are Lucy Msukwa and Mercy Kafotokoza. The loss of their loved ones due to a lack of access to health care facilities motivated them to start initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety of mothers during pregnancy and childbirth.

Uchembere Wabwino Maternity Ltd

In 2019, Msukwa started a clinic, Uchembere Wabwino Maternity Ltd, in Mzuzu to provide better health care services to pregnant women and educate them about complications. Msukwa, a certified nurse and midwife, graduated from an Academy for Women Entrepreneurs program in 2021. She received a $10,000 grant to improve the clinic’s facilities and train her staff.

Furthermore, the clinic also provides sexual and reproductive health services, family planning services and preconception services, along with educating pregnant women, hence creating hope for mothers in Malawi. A 2023 report by the United States African Development Foundation (USADF) highlighted several achievements of the clinic: the number of patients increased from 1,894 to 5,000, zero deaths were recorded during deliveries and the clinic’s business revenues improved.

Msukwa has continued to work for women and has become a beacon of hope for mothers in Malawi. She is also working to end period poverty in Mzuzu and her vision is to implement innovative, data-driven programs to enhance women’s access to health care services.

Nurses on Bikes

In 2016, Kafotokoza, now a registered nurse, founded Wandikweza to reduce deaths from preventable causes and provide accessible health care to people living in remote areas of Malawi, where approximately 82% of the population lives. Wandikweza has various sub-programs, such as community health workers, mobile clinics, community engagement and health centers focused on improving maternal health in rural areas.

In 2019, it launched another initiative, Nurses On Bikes. It provides trained nurses with bikes to care for pregnant women. Wandikweza is running Nurses On Bikes in Dowa and Mangochi areas, with 14 nurses who have served 21,901 women in one quarter of 2024. Nurses On Bikes ignites new hope for mothers living in remote areas of Malawi who previously had no access to health care facilities due to lack of transport or finances.

Lessons for the Future

“One person can change the world”- Rosa Parks. Msukwa and Kafotokoza’s journeys are powerful reminders that one individual can make a meaningful difference and that involving local actors is extremely important to improve maternal health. Following the success of these initiatives, collaboration between international organizations and local communities has intensified.

One such effort is the Vodafone Foundation’s launch of the “m-mama” project in Malawi in 2025. This emergency referral and transport system, already operational in Tanzania and Lesotho, will provide life-saving services to 12,600 pregnant women and babies. After its launch, the Government of Malawi will be able to sustain the project for just $350,000, which is less than the cost of two new ambulances. These collaborations offer a promising future full of hope for mothers in Malawi.

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr