The Tililimodzi Coalition has reached a significant milestone in its mission to build resilience and strengthen disaster preparedness in Malawi. The Salima District Executive Committee has officially approved the Climate Recovery, Resilience and Development Project (Pilot Phase), paving the way for on-the-ground implementation.
As the lead coordinator for the Central Region, GAYO will spearhead the project in Salima, ensuring that government and district policies are followed, partnerships are strengthened, and interventions are effectively monitored and reported. This leadership role places GAYO at the center of coordinating coalition efforts with the Salima District Council, handling community concerns, and ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.
The project team will embark on a comprehensive needs assessment exercise in targeted flood-prone areas across Traditional Authorities Makanjira, Khombeza, and Mwaza. This assessment will examine the functionality of early warning systems, identify capacity gaps within disaster management committees, and evaluate vulnerabilities, WASH-specific conditions, and livelihood impacts. The findings will guide evidence-based interventions in subsequent years of the four-year project.
The pilot phase will also include mapping of flood-prone zones, maintenance and installation of early warning systems, capacity building for Village Disaster Risk Management Committees (VDRMCs), and rehabilitation of boreholes into flood-proofed, disability-friendly water points. These activities are designed to ensure communities in Salima are better prepared to withstand floods, access safe water, and recover more effectively from disasters.
With a total budget of MWK 34 million, the project represents a multi-sectoral approach, integrating WASH, climate technology, health, education, and agriculture. In Salima, the focus will be on climate resilience and WASH, with GAYO coordinating alongside partners such as Future for All, ZAYANE, Baseflow, and Micromec.
The approval by the District Executive Committee marks a turning point for disaster resilience in Salima. By involving local leaders, community structures, and district departments, the Tililimodzi Coalition is ensuring that interventions are participatory, sustainable, and aligned with district development plans.
For GAYO, this is not only a leadership role but also a responsibility to amplify youth voices and community priorities in disaster risk management. Tomorrow’s needs assessment will be the first step in building a safer, more resilient Salima where communities are empowered to anticipate, prepare for, and recover from floods while safeguarding their livelihoods and dignity.
