Projects

COMMUNITIES IN RUMPHI DISTRICT WITNESS LIFE-AR LAUNCH

Communities of Chitimba Area Development Committee (ADC) in Rumphi District marked a significant milestone in climate resilience efforts on February 8, 2025, with the official launch of the Least Developed Countries (LDC) Initiative for Effective Adaptation and Resilience (LIFE-AR) investment projects.

The event brought together local leaders, government officials, and project stakeholders, including Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe as the Guest of Honour, LIFE-AR Malawi Programme Manager Eddah Lijoni-Jere, and the global LIFE-AR Interim Secretariat representative Siân Fedeski, and Rumphi District Commissioner Emmanuel Bulukutu.

A key highlight of the launch was the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bongolo River Dyke, an essential infrastructure project aimed at strengthening flood protection in the district. Flooding has long posed challenges for communities in Rumphi, causing damage to homes, farmlands, and vital infrastructure facilities. The new dyke is being strategically constructed upstream to regulate water flow, reduce erosion, and mitigate flood risks in both residential and agricultural areas.

Engineered for long-term durability, the dyke is being excavated down to the bedrock to ensure a stable foundation capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions and high water pressure. Standing 1.5 meters above ground level, the structure is designed to prevent overflow and safeguard surrounding communities for decades. Built with high-quality materials and advanced engineering techniques, it is expected to remain functional for over 50 years.

To launch the dyke construction works, Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe laid the foundation stone, symbolizing the community’s commitment to resilience and disaster preparedness.

Following the dyke launch ceremony, participants gathered at Chitimba Primary School for a tree-planting exercise in alignment with Malawi’s national tree-planting season. Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe, the District Commissioner, and the LIFE-AR Malawi Programme Manager each planted a tree, reinforcing the importance of environmental restoration. The activity underscored  the critical role afforestation plays in combating climate change, restoring degraded ecosystems, and promoting sustainable land management.

During the event, stakeholders emphasized the importance of LIFE-AR in Chitimba. Speakers shared insights into the project’s history, objectives, and the direct investments supporting climate resilience. It was announced that of the GBP200 that was received by the district, GBP100,000 (MWK 227,000,000) had been allocated directly to communities, empowering them to implement climate adaptation initiatives tailored to their specific community needs. This funding reinforces a locally led approach, ensuring that communities take ownership of resilience-building efforts.

The launch of the LIFE-AR investment projects at Chitimba ADC marks a crucial step in Malawi’s climate adaptation strategy. By integrating infrastructure development with environmental conservation, these initiatives aim to enhance long-term resilience to climate change and environmental sustainability. Continued collaboration among government agencies, project partners, and local communities will be essential to ensuring the success and scalability of these efforts, contributing to a more climate-resilient future for Rumphi District and beyond.