Thanks to a small community based organization ( www.zikomo.org ) working in Malawi since the famine August 2002, villagers will be organizing their own fundraising this weekend in the form of a viewing of the world cup final. There is great excitement in each village collecting a small amount of money to come to see a TV operating for the first time let alone a World Cup Final . The Zikomo team had made a promise to the people of Matande Village under Zomba Plateau in Southern Malawi ,that the day of the world cup final was the deadline, to have light and international coverage of the game that will now have a few extra people in the world watching. This area will have solar-powered light where no light has been before and this will enable for the first time an empowerment of the people themselves..
Zikomo members from Galway travelled to Malawi last August to help with the completion of their second community centre . This weeks events are thanks to help from staff from Galway County Council and to the vision of Rosina Joyce, who, when in Malawi, heard a request for a solar panel. It was only possible to complete this part of the overall project with the help of a generous bequest from the late Sabina Clarke( RIP last July) and management though her sister Brid Brophy . Sabina ( Sam ) who supported all sports and education would be delighted to see that these solar panels will allow the children to study in the evening , the women to generate income though electric sewing machines during the day and viewing of educational films especially for youngsters in AIDS awareness. For this woman who quietly gave so generously, this is a tribute to her memory, giving improved health, education and ability to participate in sport . Thanks also to many other people who have donated and continue to support Zikomo over the last 8 years.
