Old Mutual Completes Post-Cyclone Freddy Recovery Project, Handover Set for June 5

Old Mutual (Blantyre) Foundation Trust has announced the completion of its Post-Cyclone Freddy Recovery Project, which rehabilitated damaged school infrastructure at Chithumbwi Primary School in Phalombe and Chitedze Primary School in Mulanje. The project also included the construction of two new classroom blocks at Chazinga Primary School in Phalombe and Maliya Primary School in Blantyre.

The Foundation invested MK360 million in the initiative, implemented in collaboration with CARE Malawi.

Speaking in an interview, Foundation Chairperson Tawonga Manda expressed excitement over the project’s completion, noting that learners will benefit from improved learning environments.

“As you may recall, in early 2023, the country was hit by the devastating Cyclone Freddy, with the Southern region being the most affected. We partnered with CARE Mw to reach the hardest -hit districts and schools. We have successfully rehabilitated school structures, including classroom blocks toilets and a head teachers office,” Manda said.

The handover ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, 5 June 2025, at Maliya Primary School in Blantyre.

“I can confirm that all preparations for the handover are complete. We have engaged all relevant stakeholders, and we are pleased that both teachers and learners will now operate in safer and conducive environments,” Manda added.

Cyclone Freddy, which struck Malawi in March 2023, claimed over 1,000 lives and caused extensive damage to homes, schools and hospitals. Old Mutual initially responded with a donation of assorted relief items worth MK60 million through Red Cross Malawi.

Old Mutual (Blantyre) Foundation Trust is a Philanthropic arm of the Old Mutual (Malawi) Limited, a leading financial service provider in the country.