CRECCOM Bids Farewell to Dr. Benjamin Kaneka, Welcomes Justice Jean Rosemary Kayira as New Board Chairperson

Dr. Kaneka cuts a farewell cake prepared in his honour by CRECCOM, marking the close of his impactful tenure as Board Chairperson.

The Creative Centre for Community Mobilisation (CRECCOM) has announced a significant transition in its Board of Trustees leadership, bidding farewell to outgoing Board Chairperson Dr. Benjamin Kaneka and welcoming Justice Jean Rosemary Kayira as the incoming Chairperson.

Dr. Kaneka, a respected academic and development leader, is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Malawi and an expert in Sociology and Population Studies. During his tenure as Board Chairperson, CRECCOM strengthened its institutional capacity and expanded its programming in inclusive quality education, gender and women empowerment, youth development, child protection, health and wellbeing, climate resilience, and social accountability.

Dr. Benjamin Kaneka smiles warmly during his farewell ceremony, reflecting on his dedicated years of service as CRECCOM Board Chairperson.

Speaking during the farewell event, Dr. Kaneka expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Board during a time of strategic growth and transformation.

“It has been a great honour to lead an organisation that remains committed to grassroots-driven change. CRECCOM has played a vital role in transforming lives through community empowerment, and I am confident it will continue to grow in relevance and impact,” he said.

Taking over as Chairperson is Justice Jean Rosemary Kayira, a High Court Judge with a distinguished legal career and a strong track record in promoting justice, equity, and the rights of women and girls. Justice Kayira brings a wealth of experience in judicial reform, legal empowerment, and community advocacy to the role.

Justice Jean Rosemary Kayira shares a moment of reflection as she assumes her new role as CRECCOM Board Chairperson, bringing with her a strong commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment.

In her acceptance remarks, Justice Kayira underscored her commitment to building on the foundation laid by her predecessor.

“I am deeply honoured to assume this role and contribute to the continued advancement of CRECCOM’s mission. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board and management team to further drive transformative, people-centered development,” she said.

CRECCOM’s Executive Director, Alinafe Ireen Chibwana, commended both the outgoing and incoming Board Chairs for their commitment and leadership.

“Dr. Kaneka’s vision and support have been instrumental in guiding CRECCOM’s growth and deepening its impact in Malawi. We are excited to welcome Justice Kayira, whose legal expertise and passion for equity will be vital as we continue to address critical development challenges through community mobilisation,” she said.

With its guiding motto—“Effecting change through community involvement”—CRECCOM continues to position itself as a leading Malawian NGO committed to empowering communities through innovative, inclusive, and sustainable development solutions. The organisation remains focused on influencing policy, promoting equity, and ensuring that no one is left behind.