By Suleman Chitera
Women under the banner Chilomoni Girls have embarked on a colourful and symbolic march to present a letter of appreciation to Chilomoni Member of Parliament, Noel Lipipa, in recognition of his commitment to improving access to secondary education in the area.
The women say Lipipa’s decision to listen to their plea for the construction of a community secondary school has restored hope to many families, particularly those with girl children who have for years struggled to continue their education due to the absence of a nearby secondary school.
Speaking during the march, Chilomoni Girls Secretary Mable Lwanda said the lack of a secondary school in Chilomoni, Blantyre, has for a long time forced learners—especially girls—to walk long distances or drop out of school altogether.
“Honourable Lipipa has shown true leadership by hearing the cry of mothers. This school will protect the future of our girls and reduce school dropouts,” said Lwanda.
She added that the group’s vision is to see every child in Chilomoni accessing education without barriers, stressing that education remains the most powerful tool for empowering girls and breaking the cycle of poverty.
The procession, which started at Nthukwa and headed to Mr Lipipa’s residence, attracted women and various community leaders clad in uniforms representing different primary schools within the area—an image that symbolised unity, gratitude, and collective commitment to education.
Residents have since hailed MP Lipipa for prioritising education development, describing the planned secondary school as a landmark project that will uplift Chilomoni and inspire more girls to pursue their academic dreams.
