Ansah backs inclusive empowerment initiatives for vulnerable groups

First Vice-President Jane Ansah has called for elderly people and persons with disabilities to be fully included in economic empowerment programmes, warning that vulnerable groups must not be left behind in efforts to improve livelihoods.

Speaking on Wednesday during the handover of food relief items at Mthenthera Community Day Secondary School under Senior Chief Kalumbu in Lilongwe, Ansah said economic initiatives such as village banks and cooperatives should be accessible to all members of society.

She urged communities and development partners to ensure the needs of older people and persons living with disabilities are accommodated so that they can actively participate in income-generating activities.

Ansah also challenged villagers to embrace irrigation farming as a way of strengthening food security and reducing reliance on rainfall, particularly as communities continue to feel the effects of El Niño-induced weather shocks.

Her remarks came as local leaders warned that hunger remains a major concern in the area.

Senior Chief Kalumbu and ward councillor Benjamin Bisiwasi appealed for additional food assistance, saying many households are struggling to cope with food shortages.

The relief items were donated through a foundation that supports vulnerable groups through humanitarian assistance and economic empowerment programmes.

Organisers said the latest donation is expected to benefit about 4,000 people, offering much-needed support to families facing hardship while broader efforts continue to build long-term resilience.