August 30th, 2024 – The Foundation for Community and Capacity Development (FOCCAD), marked a significant milestone with the launch of its K408 million disbursement to 24 pilot villages in Nkhotakota district, under the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP).

In collaboration with the Spark MicroGrants, the initiative aims to empower local communities from the 24 villages spread across four Traditional Authorities (T/As) of Kalimanjira, Mphonde, Mwadzama and Malengachanzi, to support their unique development projects, fostering community-led progress and collective action, each receiving a minimum of MK17 million.

The launch event, held in Traditional Authority Kalimanjira, was attended by key stakeholders, including the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Digitalization, who is also former FOCCAD Board Chairperson, Mr. Baldwin Samuel Chiyamwaka as a Guest of Honour, Representatives from the District Council, Spark MicroGrants and Traditional Leaders.

Mr. Chiyamwaka praised the initiative and urged the communities to maintain accountability in managing the funds, while acknowledging the vital support of Spark MicroGrants in making this initiative possible.

FCAP model developed by Spark MicroGrants and FOCCAD, emphasizes community-led planning and decision-making and empowers local communities to identify their own priorities and invest in projects that will directly impact their livelihoods, such as irrigation farming, livestock production, maize milling, and the installation of piped water systems.

FOCCAD Executive Director, Dan Nthara expressed confidence in the program’s ability to address the real issues affecting these communities, promoting sustainable economic growth and self-reliance. “The program is designed to empower communities to take charge of their own development, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency,” Nthara stated.

Both Traditional Authority (T/A) Kalimanjira and Dr. Jacob Kafulafula who represented the District’s Commissioner (DC), commended FOCCAD for the timely support, noting its importance in enhancing local economic development.

FOCCAD aligns the initiative with Malawi’s Vision 2063 Agenda, which focuses on human capital development and increasing local engagement in development activities. The disbursement of the funds will continue until the end of March 2025, reflecting FOCCAD’s commitment to sustainable community development and its dedication to fostering local capacities for improved livelihoods.