EU Delegation Applauds CRECCOM's Impact on Youth Livelihoods and Green Skills Development
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
A delegation from the European Union (EU) to Malawi has visited the Creative Centre for Community Mobilisation (CRECCOM) to appreciate the organisation’s work in improving livelihoods among young people, women, and vulnerable communities.
The delegation, led by Maria Agnese Arban, Programme Manager for Gender and Youth, toured the Green Jobs for Adolescents and Youth Project in Ntcheu. The project, funded by Save the Children Italy, is being implemented by CRECCOM in a consortium comprising Save the Children Malawi, Emerge Livelihoods, Mzuzu University, TEVETA, and ADRA Malawi.
The project is equipping young people with practical skills in ecotourism, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. Beneficiaries have undergone training through institutions such as SOS Technical College, Ntonda Technical College, and Mzuzu University, with many also completing industrial attachments. Some have since secured employment, while others have started their own businesses using start-up support provided in the form of equipment.
Among the beneficiaries is Mayeso Mapalamba, a young person living with a physical disability, who trained in solar home systems installation under the renewable energy component. He said the skills he acquired have enabled him to earn income by installing solar systems within his community while also helping households access reliable and clean energy. “Before this, I depended on others, but now I am able to support myself and my family. The work I do is helping people in my area who did not have electricity,” he said.
Arthur Chimwala, who trained in sustainable agriculture, is using an innovative irrigation method that involves recycled plastic bottles. He fills the bottles with water and places them close to crops, allowing water to drip slowly into the soil over time. The method helps conserve water, maintains soil moisture, and supports crop growth even during dry periods. He said this has enabled him to farm throughout the year and increase his production.
Another beneficiary, Mercy Njirayaduka, appealed for support in accessing solar-powered water pumping systems to expand irrigation farming. She said the current methods are helping, but there is potential to increase production if more efficient water systems are introduced.
Group Village Head Tsikulamowa applauded the initiative, saying it has brought meaningful change in the area by giving young people practical skills and opportunities to improve their lives. “We have seen a big difference in this community because many youths who had no direction are now working and supporting themselves. This project has brought hope to our area,” she said.
Speaking after the tour, Maria Agnese Arban expressed satisfaction with what the delegation observed on the ground. She noted that the project is creating opportunities for young people while also addressing practical challenges faced in communities. She commended the approach of combining skills training with hands-on experience and start-up support, saying it is making a visible difference in people’s lives.
CRECCOM Executive Director Alinafe Ireen Chibwana said the organisation remains committed to supporting communities to improve their livelihoods through sustainable and inclusive approaches. She explained that CRECCOM’s Social Mobilisation Campaign model ensures that communities are actively involved in the development process, allowing them to take ownership of interventions and sustain the benefits over time.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to interact directly with beneficiaries and witness how skills development, innovation, and community engagement are contributing to improved livelihoods in Ntcheu.
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