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Malawi
Most Malawians rely on subsistence farming to survive. The country is prone to natural disasters, from drought to heavy rainfalls. These extremes mean that Malawi typically must import thousands of tons of food every year to keep its people from starving. An estimated 21% of the population is infected with HIV/AIDS, and in some areas the rate reaches as high as 50%. Malaria is the most frequent cause of illness and death among Malawian children under 5 years of age.
Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Anglican Dioceses of Northern Malawi and Southern Malawi to implement integrated development programs to improve the food supply, create economic opportunities for families and fight preventable diseases, including malaria and HIV/AIDS.
Promoting Health and Fighting Disease
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Malawi is one of 15 countries in sub-Saharan Africa where the NetsforLife® program partnership is working to prevent malaria by distributing long-lasting, insecticide-treated nets and educating communities in prevention and treatment methods.
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HIV/AIDS awareness workshops train clergy and community leaders to teach prevention to those affected by AIDS, including orphaned children, and encourage people to seek voluntary testing and treatment.
Alleviating Hunger and Improving Food Supply
- Six communities in northern Malawi are being provided with improved seeds, equipment and training in farming practices to increase crop production and harvests. A tree planting program reduces erosion and improves soil quality.
- People are learning how to create and maintain vegetable gardens, which help increase the nutrition in their diets.
- Model farms are created for trainers to learn and then teach to surrounding communities the benefits of mulching and composting, crop rotation, terracing and drought-resistant plant varieties.
