By Brighton Tchongwe
Standard Bank Plc and World Vision International have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on initiatives aimed at promoting environmental conservation and climate resilience in Malawi.
The first partnership under Standard Bank’s “Mtengo Wanga” initiative will fund forest regeneration efforts to the tune of MK240 million over three years.
The symbolic signing ceremony in Lilongwe marks the beginning of a collaboration that will restore 200 hectares of land and directly impact 10,000 community members.
Standard Bank’s “Mtengo Wanga” initiative seeks to amplify and support efforts to restore Malawi’s natural forest cover through partnerships that promote mindset change, knowledge transfer, and tree planting.
World Vision’s Mbwezera Nkhalango project will be a key partner in this initiative, which includes regenerating forests, promoting forest-based enterprises, and engaging school students in climate resilience activities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at BICC in Lilongwe, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank Plc Graham Chipande has emphasized the bank’s commitment to driving Malawi’s growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.
“Our partnership with World Vision International is underpinned by a strong alignment of purpose. We are passionate about doing business sustainably and partnering with organizations that understand the importance and impact of operating from that perspective,” said Chipande.
In his remarks the World Vision International’s Director of Operations Charles Chimombo has expressed gratitude for the partnership with Standard Bank.
“At World Vision International, we envision a world where children are secure and the environment is protected. We appreciate Standard Bank’s partnership, which demonstrates its dedication to environmental conservation and contributes to Malawi’s growth and development,” explained Chimombo.
The partnership aligns with Malawi Vision 2063, which emphasizes the need for environmental action and stewardship. Standard Bank’s commitment also reflects its broader alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN Principles for Responsible Banking (UN PRB), the Paris Agreement, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
World Vision International has been working in Malawi since 1982, with a long-standing track record of partnering with communities to drive inclusive and sustainable development.
This partnership is expected to make a significant impact on promoting environmental conservation and climate resilience in Malawi.
Standard Bank has extended an open invitation to other organizations to join hands in advancing this cause.
