News & Events

Delivery of the Sewing Machine – 30/04/13

Today was a great day in the village. The usual ceremonial greeting took place with great gusto and
fervor. Beatrice and I had agreed on the way up that we would surprise them with the sewing machine.
So, we made them all stand with their eyes covered until it was in their midst. Well they danced with the
sewing machine, beside the sewing machine and almost on top of it. Joy unbridled. Of course, Murphy’s
Law ensued and it didn’t work. The local tailor was called for and he got it in working order. Teresa is the
only one at present who can operate the machine, but they will learn quickly.

The machine is a Singer, foot operated. I did try to work one but it is not as easy as it looks. I couldn’t get
the rhythm but they insist it is like riding a bicycle. Beats me!

Then we had visitors to our work room. Again this was an excuse; yes you’re right, for more singing and
dancing. We also treated them to an Irish dancing display that would put Riverdance to shame. I love
participating in the song and dance however they seem to laugh rather a lot at my efforts. I did mention
before that the Malawians laugh from deep within. They love fun and tell you exactly what they think.
No diplomacy here but lots of fun and craic!

The women seem to love visitors arriving and are eager to show them around their village, and indeed
to display the work they have completed. They interact well with each other and have their own order
which we could never understand. Each work session starts and ends in prayer.

Another nice happening today was that the banana leaves workers had produced about 15 items over
the weekend. They plait the dried leaves, keeping the plait taut between their toes, and sew them
together. I consider it hard on their fingers but they seem to manage it well. It is great to see. When
they need more raw materials they simply walk outside and pick up the leaves which are scattered all
around.

One group started knitting Teddy Bears today, while another group is continuing to work on Felt Making

which only requires wool soap and water. Both of these are new crafts for the group and yet to be

mastered. But Beatrice says “we will do” and they will.

It was a hive of activity today and a privilege to be part of.

- Catherine

Colm Clancy Memorial Walk

Colm Clancy’s annual memorial walk in aid of Cara Malawi and Ubwino Wa Amayi, both NGO’s operating in Malawi, was held on Easter Sunday in Glenvagh National Park.

It was as always superbly run by Betty and Matt Clancy. The funds raised since 2010 has enabled Cara Malawi to continue the 10 adult education classes daily in the villages of Kaphuka and Dzandi in Dedza region of Malawi and to assist with the cottage industry in Dzandi. Cara Malawi is so grateful to the generous response of all the people in Donegal.

The photo is of Colm with his parents Betty and Matt and has pride of place in their home

The view from the memorial bench in honour of Colm Clancy.

Maize Mill

ADESCO provided the necessary funds for the acquisition and installation of milling machines in the Maize Mill in Kaphuka. These were installed in December 2012 and the Mill will be operational in early 2013.

Ladies Lunch 2012

A very successful Ladies Lunch was held on the 8th November 2012 in Siam Thai. This function was well attended and Cara Malawi expresses their thanks for the continuing support in difficult times.

Sale of Work in Holles St

The Christmas Sale of Work was held in the National Maternity Hospital in December 2012 and raised 1800 euro for Cara Malawi. Cara Malawi wishes to express its thanks to the hospital and its staff for their support.

Mini Marathon

Runners in the Mini Marathon raised 1500 Euro for Cara Malawi – well done and thanks to all who ran on our behalf.

Colm Clancy Memorial Walk

Once again Betty and Matt Clancy donated 4,300 Euro to Cara Malawi arising from the annual Colm Clancy Memorial Walk which is held in the beautiful Glenveagh National Park in Donegal.

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