Before joining Chipulumutso (“salvation”) savings group, many men and women in Ntcheu, Malawi, could not afford essential items including food, clothing, and school fees. Unable to purchase farming supplies, producing enough crops to make a profit was difficult. They needed a solution.
However, predatory lending practices prevalent in the area had broken trust and harmed community members in the past. “Before the savings group ministry was introduced in our area, people didn’t want anything to do with savings groups or village banks because they had a bad image,” says Rabson Msamanyada, who now leads Chipulumutso as its chair. “They were described as groups that wanted to steal from the innocent.”
But, when 15 members of the local church congregation started Chipulumutso, their neighbors saw them praying and worshiping God together—and grew curious. News of the savings group began to spread in the community, which was about to lead to flourishing Ntcheu had never seen before!
Businesses built by faith and community
As Chipulumutso grew from 15 to 23 members, the group discussed business ideas based on the needs of families in the area. One need that they identified was clothes. People often had to travel long distances to purchase them, so the group started a tailoring business to provide easier access to clothing within the community. Additionally, group members started farms along with a business buying and selling produce.
Not only have businesses grown through the Chipulumutso savings group, but faith as well. The group gathers bi-weekly to learn about financial skills while also engaging actively in worship and prayer. Members come from churches across Ntcheu, so the group has offered additional connection and support across a greater distance. When the group started, very few members were able to participate actively in their churches. Now, many tithe generously and serve as church leaders!
Awakened dreams bring abundance and hope
God is fulfilling lifelong dreams and strengthening the community through Chipulumutso. Member Joseph Mkangala shares that for many years, he felt limited to dream big because of his finances and location. After spending years working on people’s farms, he was introduced to Chipulumutso’s tailoring lessons. Joseph shares, “I knew this skill had changed my destiny. I am proud to share that I can now sew clothes!”
Other group members like Emily Wanje have been able to purchase livestock, including goats for their farms. Another member, Daliya Siliya, shares that she is now able to afford school fees for her child.
Chipulumutso has become a light for God in the community while transforming the lives of its members. Ntcheu now has easier access to food and clothing, and members have been equipped to both save for their families and give within their churches. The savings group has become a resource for people to be able to afford transportation to the hospital and other emergency expenses as well. Praise God for the incredible work He has done through His church in Ntcheu and through Chipulumutso savings group!
You can help more churches launch savings groups just like Chipulumutso. Give one time or sign up for a monthly gift to help more families across the world invest in their dreams.
