Story by Mabvuto Kalawa, Correspondent, Malawi Freedom Net
NATHENJE – The newly formed Nathenje Parish Fundraising and Development Committee conducted an assessment at Matapila Centre today as part of efforts to make the parish self-sustaining and independent.
The visit was in line with the development vision of Parish Priest Fr. Thomas Kasiya, who established the committee to drive local empowerment projects.Nathenje Parish Launches Fundraising Initiative
Mr. Andrew Chapola, an executive member of the committee, told Christians at Matapila that the assessment aims to identify the most suitable site for constructing a maize mill. He said the initiative is part of a broader Christian empowerment program to help centres become self-reliant and independent.
Chapola explained that similar assessments are being carried out at five centres in the parish, and urged members to cooperate. He added that if Matapila is selected, the community must take responsibility for managing the facility.Nathenje Parish Empowers Committees with Girls Hostel Handover
“This project operates on a revolving model. Profits from one mill will be used to purchase another for a different centre,” Chapola said.
The treasurer of Matapila Centre said the community is ready to support the project. “On our part, we will mold bricks. The land is available and electricity is near the church,” he said. He noted that the initiative would not only strengthen the centre economically but also spiritually by attracting more people to the church.
The chairman of Matapila Centre commended Fr. Kasiya for his development vision. “Indeed, Fr. Thomas Kasiya is a priest of development. As Christians of Matapila, we will work hand in hand with the Father Superior to accomplish his mission and vision for the parish. May God bless him,” he said.Malawi 2025 Elections: APM shakes Nathenje Trading Centre APM shakes Nathenje Trading Centre
Assessments have already been conducted at Makanya, Chamadenga, Chitekwere, and Matapila. The exercise will conclude at Kapedzera.
Nathenje Parish currently operates one maize mill at Nathenje, donated by St. Patrick’s Parish as part of its support for parish empowerment.