UNDP gives a boost to community organizations

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has challenged beneficiaries of the MK 547 million grant under the Community Sustainable Development Projects Fund to develop interventions that reduce the impact of climate change.

UNDP Malawi Portfolio Manager for Resilience and Sustainable Growth, Rabi Gaudo, made the remarks on Tuesday in Lilongwe during the official signing ceremony for the funding awarded to eight grantees.

Gaudo noted that Malawi has been severely affected by disasters over the years, which have disrupted lives, underscoring the need for innovative solutions to restore the environment.

“We see land areas being degraded. This funding is an instrument through which we provide small grants to community NGOs to work on various community initiatives,” said Gaudo.

Caroline Mvalo, Executive Director of the Centre for Conflict Management and Women Development Affairs, one of the eight beneficiaries, stated that they plan to use the grant for a waste management initiative that will also serve as an income-generating activity for women.

Meanwhile, Dorothy Tembo Nhlema, Chairperson of the National Steering Committee, urged the UNDP to support monitoring activities to ensure the grantees implement their proposed projects effectively.

“We would like to closely monitor these institutions to ensure the funds are used for their intended purpose,” said Nhlema.

The MK 547 million grant will support eight community organizations in tackling critical environmental and developmental challenges.