Families: 96 households across 3 villages
Water Committee: 5 men and 5 women

Malubza’s history with water stretches back generations. Families first settled in the area in 1957 after migrating from Nkhoma in Lilongwe, but they had never had a water well of their own. Residents relied on the Kachere River, and girls in particular faced the challenge of helping their families fetch water while trying to keep up with school.

The consequences of unsafe water were severe. Residents reported frequent diarrhoea and cholera, and families visited the clinic three to four times a month. In 1997, the community lost five people to cholera. Dowa Hospital, about an hour away, was a difficult journey for families needing medical care.

The well installed on June 5, 2026, is the first water well the community has ever had. With clean water now closer to home, families no longer have to depend entirely on the river. They hope this change will reduce waterborne illnesses and ease the burden on children who previously helped collect water over long distances.

Education remains an important reason for that relief. Before the well, reported attendance at Mbira Primary School was 50% for both girls and boys. With water easier to collect, children have more opportunity to get ready for school and attend consistently, without the same pressure to help their families make difficult water journeys.

Residents are also planning for greater financial stability. Families hope to buy chickens and goats to generate income, provide food, and cover school fees. Having more time for household responsibilities and fewer disruptions from illness has also contributed to greater peace within families.

Florida James and Livines Charle are among those serving on the Water Well Management Committee. For the women elected, this is their first leadership role. Although training has not yet taken place, they are ready to help care for the well. After nearly seven decades since the community’s settlement, Malubza finally has its own well and a new opportunity to plan for the future.