By Suleman Chitera

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) parliamentary hopeful for Mangochi-Municipal, Rodrick Clement Chiwaya, has pledged to champion skills empowerment as a pathway to economic independence.

Speaking at a youth talent showcase in the area, Chiwaya highlighted the untapped potential among young people, saying many struggle not because they lack skills, but because they lack the right support to turn those skills into sustainable livelihoods.

Through his flagship initiative, “Mbedza”—which aims to equip over 10,000 women and youths with practical skills to produce marketable products—Chiwaya says lives are already being transformed. Participants are now producing and selling items such as body lotions, yogurt, soap, and soya pieces, showcasing a shift toward self-reliance.

“We must move away from a culture of dependency. When people create and sell their own products, they don’t just feed their families—they build a stronger community,” Chiwaya emphasized.

As the race for Parliament heats up, Chiwaya’s message is clear: empowerment, not handouts, is the key to Mangochi’s progress.