DR Congo: A Transformed Vision In Kikula: The Journey Of Matanda Ngadwe
By Tatiana Ballay, Communications Officer
Matanda Ngadwe, 68 years old, lives in the Kikula neighborhood of Likasi, a city in the Haut-Katanga province. This area is known for its vegetable fields and a population of 20,000 people. Despite challenges such as insecurity and inequalities in access to education, Matanda remains deeply connected to her community. She shares her daily life with her husband, eight grandchildren (three of whom are orphans), and the memory of her three deceased children. For over 30 years, she has been involved in the agricultural life of Kikula, using local resources to support her family’s needs.
"Kikula is my refuge. Despite the challenges, I am proud of my community and the opportunities it offers." – Matanda Ngadwe
An Economic Transformation through the Empowered World View Approach
In January 2024, Matanda participated in training on the Empowered World View approach organized by World Vision. She started a small business selling sweet drinks, with an initial investment of 35,000 FC (around 14 USD). She purchases bottles at 1,500 FC each and sells them for 2,500 FC, generating a weekly gross income of 60,000 FC (24 USD). After deducting expenses, she is able to save up to 30,000 FC in some months.
"Learning how to save has been key. This discipline has opened up opportunities I never imagined." – Matanda Ngadwe
She also diversified her agricultural activities, growing vegetables in the dry season and maize during the rainy season, generating additional income.
Social Involvement: The Bukwashi Association
Matanda is a member of the Bukwashi association, a farming collective with 33 members, including 12 women and 21 men. This group encourages mutual support and shared learning. Thanks to her training, Matanda learned how to manage her savings and diversify her agricultural activities. She now shares these skills with the members of Bukwashi, contributing to the economic development of her neighborhood.
"Bukwashi has provided me with a platform to share my ideas and learn from others. Together, we are becoming stronger and more self-reliant." – Matanda Ngadwe
Her children have even started a catering business, further boosting the local economy.
Faith: A Driving Force for Change
For Matanda, her transformation is fueled by a renewed faith. She attributes her successes to God, whom she sees as the source of her strength and inspiration. This faith has led her to view every challenge as an opportunity for growth and success.
"God gave me the wisdom to think and the resources to act. Every step I take is guided by my faith." – Matanda Ngadwe
She also encourages her neighbors to recognize their potential and act with confidence, turning her own faith into a catalyst for change within her community.
Through her commitment, Matanda has improved her family's quality of life. She now aspires to see her grandchildren pursue higher education and realize their dreams.
"This training changed my life. It taught me to look beyond limitations and act with confidence." – Matanda Ngadwe
An Ambassador of Change
Matanda embodies the positive impact of the Empowered World View approach. Her journey demonstrates that it is possible to transform a life with limited resources, but also through solidarity and self-reliance. Today, she inspires local leaders and proves that challenges can be turned into opportunities.
"My journey shows that we all have the potential to change our reality. We just need to dare to believe and act." – Matanda Ngadwe
Matanda’s story illustrates how the Empowered World View approach, supported by World Vision, is enabling communities like Kikula to transform their futures. Through autonomy, faith, and solidarity, Matanda has shown that limits can be overcome, and challenges can become victories.