by Fyness Phiri
In the heart of Nthenga Village, a community where Cornerstone Ministries Malawi has dedicated itself to serving for the last decade, a significant transformation has unfolded with the establishment of our Maize Mill project near Cornerstone Christian High School. This venture, in partnership with Voices Awake, embodies our commitment to sustainability and self-reliance, ensuring that our programs are not solely reliant on donor support but are also income-generating endeavours.
The Maize Mill stands as a beacon of economic empowerment for the community, offering more than just milling services. It serves as a catalyst for local entrepreneurship and income generation. Families no longer need to travel long distances to mill their maize; instead, they can utilize the services of the Maize Mill, contributing to its sustainability while also meeting their own needs.
This income-generating activity not only reduces our dependence on external funding but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the community. By actively participating in the operation and management of the Maize Mill, community members become stakeholders in their own development, furthering our mission of sustainable impact.
Furthermore, the revenue generated from the Maize Mill is reinvested into Cornerstone Ministries’ programs and initiatives, ensuring their continued growth and effectiveness. Whether it’s supporting educational scholarships, community development projects, or other outreach efforts, the income from the Maize Mill plays a vital role in sustaining our organization’s mission and impact.
As stated by Cornerstone Director Danneck Falinya, the primary aim of the mill is to uplift the local community. Previously, villagers were required to journey nearly a kilometre to have their maize flour milled. With the introduction of this new establishment, however, that distance has been drastically reduced, resulting in a notable enhancement in accessibility.
A selection of photos during the launch of the maize meal in October 2023.
As we journey further into the year 2024, the Maize Mill stands as a testament to Cornerstone Ministries Malawi’s innovative approach to sustainable development. By harnessing the power of entrepreneurship and community engagement, we are not only transforming lives but also building a more resilient and self-reliant future for Nthenga Village and beyond.
To support Cornerstone Ministry Malawi’s programs, you can make your donation here:
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