On September 5th, the world marked the International Day of Charity, a time to celebrate generosity and the difference it makes in the lives of others. In Kanzalendo Parish, in the southern region of Malawi, that spirit of charity is already transforming lives through the humble beginnings of a new pre-school.
Kanzalendo, known locally as Mbusa Wabwino (“The Good Shepherd”), is one of the largest parishes in the Diocese of Chikwawa. It stretches across 14 churches, serving families who rely almost entirely on subsistence farming in the hills of Thyolo Mountain. Here, access to quality education has faced persistent challenges. Too many children especially girls, drop out of school early. Many are married young, become pregnant, or remain at home to help their parents with farm work.
The Parish Council saw a great need to break this cycle through early intervention, beginning with pre-school education. They recognised that if children could be given a proper foundation through pre-school, they would learn to love education from the start, and this, in turn, could help reduce early dropouts. Under the leadership of Sr. Imelda Simbanda, the parish has taken bold steps to tackle the challenge head-on. Sr. Imelda, who oversees the running of the pre-school, has a clear vision for its impact: “We need to change people’s attitudes towards education. Education is a vital game changer which can help development in this area, ensuring greater participation by the local people themselves at both local and national levels.”
From Nine Children to Fifty-Three
On 17 February 2024, Mbusa Wabwino Pre-School officially opened its doors. The response was overwhelming. What began with just nine pupils has grown to 53 within a year, clear proof of the strong desire for education and a sign that people’s mindsets are indeed beginning to shift.
For many of the children, this is their first structured learning experience. It is a place not only of preparation for school but of joy, play, and friendship. In 2025, the very first group of 18 children graduated to Konzalendo Primary School, a milestone that shows the pre-school is already bearing fruit.
Building for Tomorrow
Through donations from the congregation the parish hall which was in disrepair was renovated and classes could begin. Misean Cara Ireland, funding has also been approved to construct a two-classroom block to house the growing number of pupils. These generous contributions have been deeply appreciated and have made it possible to get the project off the ground. Still, as Sr. Imelda notes, “The needs of the pre-school are numerous. We shall need furniture, toys, and other items for the classrooms and playground.”
The vision is not just bricks and mortar, but an environment where children can thrive, where education is seen as valuable, and where the cycle of early school dropout is broken.
A Call to Charity
In reflecting on International day of Charity, Mbusa Wabwino Pre-School stands as a sign of what generosity can achieve. What began as a small initiative has become a seed of change, an investment in the future of Malawi.
