The World Bank has provided about K1.1 billion to Thyolo District Council for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of infrastructure destroyed by cyclones under the five-year Regional Climate Resilience Programme.

Speaking during the launch of construction works at Mitembo Primary School and the Khonjeni Extension Planning Area (EPA) office on Tuesday, the council’s Director of Planning and Development, Thokozire Munthali Chingeni, said the support will finance five development projects in the district.

“This year’s allocation of K1.1 billion will finance five projects, which include classroom blocks and ablution facilities at Mitembo and Masambanjati primary schools, an office block for Khonjeni EPA, and a staff house. These projects are aimed at improving both education and agriculture services in the district,” explained Chingeni.

Traditional Authority Kapichi, together with Senior Group Village Headman Mzungu, welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely in restoring services affected by natural disasters.

“This programme has come at the right time. It will help us recover some of the facilities that were destroyed, and ensure that children and farmers can access proper extension services again,” said T/A Kapichi.

At Mitembo Primary School, headteacher Lloyd Ngwanyalo highlighted the urgent need for intervention, noting that the cyclone destroyed two classroom blocks.

Ngwanyalo said: “The cyclone destroyed two classroom blocks, forcing the majority of learners to attend lessons under trees. This is exposing children to unbearable conditions and affecting their education".

Malawi has suffered devastating cyclones for three consecutive years since 2023, leaving a trail of destruction on infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and schools.

Many of the damaged facilities remain in a dilapidated state, straining both the education and agriculture sectors.