Manyamula, Malawi … It is sandwiched approximately halfway between the Malawi-Zambia border, and the northern district community of Mzimba. The small village community of Manyamula is found in the high plateau area of northern Malawi, and it is home to 42-year-old Chawezi Banda. She has lived in this area her entire life, and because of medical problems at the time of her birth, she has never been able to walk. Getting around is difficult anywhere in this impoverished nation, and it is no different in Manyamula. Despite the struggle to get around, it seems almost everyone in this area knows Chawezi. Her smile and positive attitude about life, despite her difficulties, is an example to all who meet her.
Reda Redding, an American working in the Mzimba area, picks up the story, “On our last trip, the old bicycle cart she was using to get around was in bad condition. It was worn out and needed major work. Even the seat was falling apart. I thought of Action for Progress and the mobility carts I have read about. One of our elders contacted Robert Tauka (a board member of AfP), and shared her story. We were thrilled to find out we could get a cart for her and even witness her receiving it! There were many teary eyes that day.
Her family was called to bring her to the Manyamula Church of Christ and meet us there for a surprise. We presented her with the shiny new cart. She was very excited, emotional, and overwhelmed with gratitude, and gave thanks to God. Her family was thankful and amazed by this gift. We shared the gift and prayer, and she drove off in her new cart.”
Picture: Chawezi shows her smile for all to see.