Malawi: A Renewed Hope after Cyclone Freddy

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Agnes points to a part of the Zomba district's house affected by Cyclone Freddy. CARE/Samuel Chibaya

Agnes Tambala,31 & mother of six, faced economic trials after her house partly collapsed under the relentless force of Cyclone Freddy. The climate-induced natural disaster struck after the mother of six exhausted her savings through farming investments. Agnes said, "I couldn’t think of anyone to lend me money. Moreover, Agnes lost her livestock kraal and her chickens. Agnes' resilience shone through as she quickly responded to reduce the economic impact she was facing. As a Tikondane Village Savings and Loans Association member, Alice approached the group to borrow cash.
Agnes is cleaning pots at home with the ducks loitering around. CARE/Samuel Chibaya

"I received a K50,000 loan in April," said Agnes. She financed careful investments to revive her source of income. "I used part of the money to buy five ducks to replace the lost chickens. Then, I used the remaining K30,000 to buy a fishing net for my husband, who fishes in Lake Chirwa." The strategic investment proved fruitful. "Imagine, my husband went fishing for just two days and brought home K13,000. With the income returning, we are sure of paying school fees and buying necessities for family support at home," she said, her voice brimming with relief and optimism. Markford Tayimu, the area’s Village Civil Protection Committee chairperson, confirmed Agnes' ordeal during Cyclone Freddy. He lauded her for utilizing the loan to rebuild her life. In the face of the storm, Agnes' story stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the community, bolstered by the support structures put in place by Titukulane.

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