By Burnett Munthali

Honourable Chifundo Makande, Member of Parliament for Balaka Central East, has once again demonstrated his commitment to grassroots empowerment through a bold financial initiative.

Makande, who also serves as the Campaign Director for the mighty Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has disbursed MK20 million in loans to business groups within Group Village Ntonya.

This initiative falls under the jurisdiction of Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District, an area known for its enterprising spirit and vibrant community life.

The financial assistance targets 10 business groups, comprising a diverse mix of beneficiaries from the area.

These include women, men, youths, and persons with disabilities who are actively involved in various small-scale business ventures.

By including a wide range of community members, the program emphasizes inclusivity and equal opportunity for economic growth.

In his remarks during the loan disbursement, Hon. Makande emphasized the importance of using the funds wisely.

He urged the beneficiary groups to invest in their businesses with discipline and focus, noting that responsible usage of the funds could transform their livelihoods.

He further assured the groups of his continued support and interest in their progress, pledging to work hand in hand with them to grow and sustain their entrepreneurial efforts.

The loans are being provided under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), a national initiative that allows Members of Parliament to directly address the developmental needs of their constituencies.

Through this fund, Makande has strategically focused on economic empowerment, particularly by supporting local business groups that form the backbone of the community’s informal economy.

This is not the first time Hon. Makande has taken such a step to support his constituents.

Last year, he rolled out a similar loan program targeting other business groups within the same constituency.

The feedback from those initial beneficiaries has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting significant growth and success in their enterprises.

Some used the funds to expand inventory, while others diversified their business offerings or improved their infrastructure and service delivery.

These previous successes have not only inspired confidence in the program but also encouraged more community members to engage in entrepreneurial activities.

The continuity and consistency of this support underline Hon. Makande’s vision of sustainable development and economic self-reliance at the local level.

Many community members have since lauded him for his leadership style, describing him as a practical and responsive leader who listens to the needs of the people.

With this latest MK20 million injection, more small businesses are expected to thrive, creating ripple effects across the local economy.

From food vending to tailoring, from agro-businesses to trading kiosks, the beneficiaries are expected to contribute to local job creation, food security, and improved standards of living.

This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the DPP, which has emphasized economic empowerment and inclusive development in its policy agenda.

By equipping citizens with financial tools and guidance, the party hopes to catalyze long-term economic transformation in rural areas.

Hon. Makande’s efforts continue to bridge the gap between government resources and the everyday realities of Malawians at the grassroots level.

As the beneficiaries begin to implement their business plans, eyes will be on Balaka Central East as a potential model for how constituency development funds can be effectively utilized for tangible, people-centered impact.

Let me know if you’d like to add quotes from beneficiaries or statistics on local business success.