By Malonje Phiri – Programs Officer
The Women’s and Youth Committees of the Malawi National Association of the Deaf (MANAD) recently held a joint meeting focused on sharing knowledge and experiences from their ongoing initiatives. This gathering was especially important as both women and youth remain among the most vulnerable groups in society, requiring greater support to achieve independence and sustainable livelihoods.
In the past, the two committees operated independently, each implementing its own activities. This joint session marked a turning point, offering a valuable platform for collaboration, learning, and the creation of sustainable networks. The meeting was part of a broader program supported by the Finnish Association of the Deaf (FAD).
Highlights
Women’s Committee Success: The women’s committee demonstrated strong consistency in mobilizing resources. They cultivated 1,000 heads of cabbage, with some already harvested and sold at K850.00 each, generating tangible income for the group.
Youth Committee Progress: Despite financial constraints, the youth committee successfully cultivated soybeans and harvested 25 bags of 50 kilograms each, though exact quantities remain to be confirmed as the bags were not weighed.
Activity Planning: Both committees had previously developed structured activity plans that guided their fundraising and income-generating efforts.
Soap-Making Initiative: With support from the Hilden Charitable Trust, MANAD rolled out soap-making training in Ntchisi, Embangweni, Rumphi, and Chiradzulu. The initiative has already shown promising results, with participants producing and selling soap to sustain their projects.
Challenges
Limited Business Management Skills: Participants face challenges in expanding and managing enterprises due to insufficient training in financial and business management.
Certification Gaps: The soap products are not yet certified, restricting sales to local markets and limiting access to larger, more profitable opportunities.
Participation Barriers: Attendance was affected, with four youths (three excused) and seven women (two excused) unable to participate.
Way Forward
Strengthen collaboration between the Women’s and Youth Committees to maximize shared experiences and resources.
Engage relevant government agencies to secure certification for soap products, opening access to broader markets.
Provide business and financial management training to enhance sustainability and enterprise growth.
Institutionalize annual joint planning sessions to ensure continued partnership and active involvement of women and youth in community development.
Conclusion
The joint meeting proved significant in creating a collaborative platform where women and youth could share knowledge, experiences, and strategies for empowerment. Under the guidance of Women’s Advisor Missie Malunga, the committees jointly developed a strategic action plan for 2026, emphasizing partnership, mutual support, and inclusive empowerment.
