Umodzi Steps in to Support A Single Elderly Mother Caring for a Daughter with a Disability

Umodzi Steps in to Support A Single Elderly Mother Caring for a Daughter with a Disability.

Photo: Ms Mvalo, 61 years and her daughter, 25 on the veranda of their rented home

In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, members of Umodzi wa a Malawi in Germany came together to support Gertrude Mvalo, a struggling mother caring for her 25-year-old disabled daughter, Wezi Mwanza, in Mzuzu, Malawi. The family’s difficult situation was brought to light through a story by journalist Samuel Kalimira, highlighting the challenges Mvalo faces daily to care for her daughter while trying to earn a living.

Wezi, who cannot walk, speak, or perform basic tasks on her own, relies entirely on her mother’s care. Due to the lack of income and resources, Mvalo has had no choice but to leave her daughter locked in their modest home while she searches for food or does piecework to sustain the family.

“Her daughter has a physical disability, she cannot do anything on her own. But if mum, the girl’s only guardian does not go for piecework, both of them won’t eat nor be able to buy clothes. The worst-case scenario would be being evicted for not paying rentals. So, what does the mother do? Is she committing a crime in her actions?”–Sam Kalimira of Times News contemplates while caught up in cognitive dissonance.

“The family’s only toilet —acts as a bathroom as well”

Moved by this heartbreaking situation, members of Umodzi contributed funds to provide immediate relief. The contributions were entrusted to journalist Sam Kalimira, who ensured the money was used to purchase necessities for the family, including food supplies and other essentials. Additionally, a portion of the funds was given directly to Mvalo to help pay rent and ease her immediate financial burdens.

Towards a Sustainable Solution

While the immediate support has provided temporary relief, Umodzi wa a Malawi in Germany recognizes the need for a long-term solution to empower the family. Plans to secure capital that would help Mvalo start a small business are in the pipeline pending the approval of the General Assembly and the endorsement of the board of executives. This would, hopefully, enable her to generate a stable income and care for Wezi without struggling to find food and shelter.

“Once fully operational, the new Umodzi executive team will try to prioritise the family’s needs, ensuring that the support they need is provided, impactful and sustainable.” Semba, the Chairperson, notes that this gesture is not a promise but an act of generosity conditional on the availability of scarce resources.

A Message of Gratitude

The Umodzi leadership extends heartfelt gratitude to all the members who contributed to this initiative. Your generosity has temporarily relieved and brought hope to such a wonderful family. Your continued support towards social causes like this is invaluable.