Msilikali SACCO successfully conducted its nationwide Women’s Program Review under the Financial Inclusion and Entrepreneurship Scaling (FInES) project. The review began in the Central Region at Kamuzu Barracks, continued to Cobbe Barracks and Zomba Airbase in the South, and concluded at Moyale Barracks in the North. The initiative provided a platform for women in Malawi Defence Force (MDF) communities to showcase businesses, share experiences, and explore opportunities for economic empowerment.
Throughout the review, Madam T. Phiri, wife of the MDF Commander was the Guest of Honour who was also joined by Madam Jafu, wife to the Deputy MDF Commander and spouses of MDF generals. This underscores the Defence Force’s strong commitment to supporting women’s empowerment. Madam Phiri commended the SACCO for its consistent efforts in uplifting women, praising the visible progress of business initiatives and encouraging participants to embrace entrepreneurship and self-reliance. “You have the ability to build something meaningful for yourselves and your families. Let us continue supporting one another and growing together,” she urged.
Madam Phiri and her delegation toured women-led enterprises, witnessing a firsthand view of the FInES program’s positive impact and showcased the determination of women to create sustainable livelihoods that contribute to both households and communities. Notable stories included Mrs. Mwayi Mapwelemwe of Mzuzu, who expanded her poultry business through MSACCO and plans further growth using individual loans. Her story echoed many similar experiences encountered throughout the review; testimonies of women transforming their lives with the support of SACCO services.
By the end of the nationwide review, one message stood clear: Msilikali SACCO is playing a pivotal role in empowering women within the military communities and other areas where the SACCO draws its membership, ensuring its commitment in Financial Inclusion in line with Malawi 2063 strategic plan. Through cooperation, resilience, and financial independence, the SACCO reaffirmed its mission in providing innovative and sustainable financial solutions for the social economic development of member’s wellbeing.
