BEYOND THE CLASSROOM, ULALO AND GGEM FARMING STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES IN NKHATABAY

Carrying more than food, these women carry hope and resilience

Ulalo has extended its support beyond the classroom by reaching out to families in five schools in Nkhatabay, Bula, Kaulasisi, Msani, Limphasa, and Mkondezi.

Through this initiative, 10 kilograms of rice and 5 kilograms of beans were distributed to needy households, reaching more than 500 people.

The support targeted communities that continue to face daily challenges in accessing enough food for their families.

This effort was made possible with the partnership of GGEM Farming through their Fair Food Relief Aid Network (FFRAN) which delivers food relief aid packages and climate smart agriculture inputs during times of crisis, helping to bolster community resilience and ensuring support reaches those in need.

Speaking on behalf of Ulalo, Chifundo Chidumu, Director of Operations and Resources, emphasized the importance of this intervention.

“Our work in schools goes hand in hand with supporting the communities around them. By meeting immediate needs such as food, we are not just providing relief, we are creating stronger and more resilient communities that can better support education and the wellbeing of children.” Said Chifundo.

Local leaders and beneficiaries echoed this sentiment. Senior Group Village Head Champumbwa of Mkondezi expressed gratitude for the outreach.

“This support has come at the right time. Families here have been struggling, and this food means a lot to us. It shows that Ulalo and its partners truly care for the people in these communities.” Said GVH Champumbwe.

For some, the impact was deeply personal. 76-year-old Leah Mhone, one of the recipients, shared her relief.

“At my age, it is not easy to provide for my family. This food has given us hope and reminded us that we are not forgotten.” Said Leah.

From grandmother to grandson, Leah, 76, celebrates food security and hope for the future.

Through such initiatives, Ulalo and its partners are reinforcing their belief that by standing with families, they are building stronger, more resilient communities around the schools they serve.

Beyond food support, Ulalo is also looking forward to further collaboration on strengthening local seed systems to provide families with long-term food security.