Mission:
Zikomo Ireland is committed to fostering the long-term self-sufficiency of rural communities in southern Malawi.
Values and Beliefs:
Our work is guided by the following five principles:
Direct aid
We strive to ensure that our funding gets the most direct way possible to our community-based projects in Malawi. We keep administration expenses to an absolute minimum. All the Irish staff work for Zikomo on a completely voluntary-basis and do not claim expenses.
Community-based development
We believe small, community-based development projects will play an important role in ending extreme poverty.
We work with local communities to find projects that best suit their needs and involve them in the development and ongoing management of these projects. Projects must be sustainable over the long-term (i.e. work without on-going philanthropic funding) in order to avoid making communities “aid dependent”.
Effectiveness
We are results-orientated and committed to ensuring that funds are used effectively. Where appropriate we will work in partnership with other NGOs, Government departments, and/or Community Groups.
Integrity and Accountability
In all our activities we adhere to the highest ethical standards and consider the long-term effects of our actions. We will maintain transparency and aim to be accountable for all the donations that are entrusted to our organisation.
Independence
We are wholly independent of any political party, religious order, or corporate organisation.
