By Mabvuto Kalawa, Correspondent
As the Bible says, “I was hungry, and you fed me,” the alarming hunger crisis in Malawi has prompted local organizations like Bright Vision, a community-based organization (CBO), to take action in alleviating hunger in Chadza, a Traditional Authority in Lilongwe District. Through the support of various donors, Bright Vision is committed to feeding vulnerable children and elderly people in the area.
Mr. Stanley Chapota, the Director of Bright Vision CBO, explained that the organization has been providing food assistance every Saturday to help address the hunger crisis in the area. “We always do this each Saturday to alleviate hunger, which has become widespread in the area due to poor harvests during the last rainy season. This is why we have taken up this activity,” he said. The organization’s feeding program is part of a broader effort to offer safety net support to the community.
According to Mr. Chapota, Bright Vision distributes food on both Wednesdays and Saturdays, with an emphasis on ensuring children and the elderly, who are the most vulnerable groups, benefit from the assistance. “During the rainy season, we distribute on Wednesdays, and Saturdays are dedicated to feeding children and elderly people. This helps keep children from spending time aimlessly in the villages, and instead, they gather at the CBO for food and support,” he added.
In addition to the feeding program, Bright Vision also focuses on the welfare of elderly individuals in the community, raising awareness about their care and encouraging communities to adopt better practices in looking after the elderly. The organization works to create a culture of care for elders in the area, underscoring the importance of respecting and supporting older community members.
Apart from these immediate interventions, Bright Vision is also working on long-term solutions to ensure sustainability. They are involved in livestock rearing and irrigation activities as part of their efforts to strengthen the community’s self-reliance and reduce dependence on external aid.
One of the senior chiefs from the area, who requested to remain anonymous, commended Bright Vision for their efforts in supporting the most vulnerable. “We are grateful for what Bright Vision CBO is doing for our children. I would encourage other organizations to learn from their approach and join in the fight against hunger in our area,” he said.
As Bright Vision continues to implement its programs in Chadza, the organization’s contribution remains crucial in addressing the widespread hunger and supporting the community’s development. Through their dedication and support, they are helping to bring hope to those in need.
