In March 2023, Tropical Cyclone Freddy devastated Malawi, leaving a trail of destruction across the country. The storm, one of the longest-lasting and deadliest cyclones in history, severely impacted agricultural communities, particularly farming co-operative members. The loss of crops threatened the livelihoods of hundreds of households, leaving them without food or income. In response to this crisis, the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF Canada) launched an initiative to rebuild lives and strengthen economic resilience among smallholder farmers.
CDF Canada’s mission is to foster sustainable, community-led economic development by empowering individuals and co-operatives with the tools they need to thrive. Through the Tropical Cyclone Freddy Recovery Project, CDF Canada provided critical resources—seeds, fertilizers, and crop cuttings—to 160 vulnerable farmers (110 women and 50 men). These efforts were strategically targeted at marginalized groups, including single female heads of households, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that support reached those most in need.
Cecilia Thambo, one of 160 farmers who participated in the Tropical Cyclone Freddy Recovery Project.
Our team visited these farmers in June to assess the impact of this intervention. One of the most remarkable stories that emerged was that of Cecilia Thambo, a young mother whose life was turned upside down by the cyclone. Before the disaster, Cecilia’s livelihood depended entirely on her small maize farm, which provided food for her family and a modest income. When the cyclone hit, she lost not only her crops but also her home. With her husband abandoning the family shortly after the storm, Cecilia faced the daunting task of raising her three young children, Ivy, James, and Louis, alone.
Thanks to CDF Canada’s timely intervention, Cecilia’s prospects began to change. The seeds and fertilizers she received allowed her to replant and harvest 150 kilograms of maize, providing food for her household for three months. Beyond subsistence, Cecilia leveraged her surplus crops to enter the local economy, securing a regular supply agreement with a nearby boarding school. This contract brought in a stable income of MWK 204,000 ($162 CAD), which was more than three times the income of the average beneficiary in the area.
This economic shift in Cecilia’s life is emblematic of the broader impact CDF Canada aims to achieve. The project not only provided immediate relief by addressing food insecurity but also laid the foundation for long-term economic empowerment. Cecilia’s ability to rebuild her livelihood and establish a sustainable income stream highlights the potential for co-operative members to become economically self-reliant, transforming disaster recovery into opportunities for growth.
Socially, the impact of CDF Canada’s support has been equally transformative. For Cecilia, regaining her economic footing has enabled her to start rebuilding her home and restore stability to her family. More than just a roof over their heads, this progress represents a rebuilding of her confidence, independence, and hope for a better future for her children. Stories like Cecilia’s demonstrate how investing in women’s economic empowerment can have far-reaching benefits for communities. Empowered women like Cecilia contribute not only to their household’s welfare but also to the social fabric of their communities by becoming role models of resilience and leadership.
CDF Canada’s work aligns with our overarching mission to promote sustainable livelihoods and community resilience. By focusing on women and marginalized groups, we help transform vulnerable populations into agents of change who can rebuild their lives and contribute to local economies. The Tropical Cyclone Freddy Recovery Project stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering inclusive economic development, proving that with the right support, individuals and communities can overcome adversity and build a more prosperous future.