Beam for women empowerment

In a drive to contribute to the development of girls’ education in the country, Beautify Malawi (Beam) Trust organised a fundraising dinner at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre on Saturday which raised K254 million (US$564 444).
The funds, being mobilised by First Lady Gertrude Mutharika’s trust, will go towards the construction of girls’ hostels across the country to improve girls’ education which is often compromised by long distances to day schools.
Seasoned marketer Frederick Changaya, who chaired the main organising committee, said in an interview yesterday the dinner and dance was a success having raised K254 million with more pledges still to come.
He said it was promising that the trust’s dream of empowering women, achieving gender equality and sustainable development of women, would be achieved.

During the dinner and dance, President Peter Mutharika, who was the guest of honour, described it as a historic occasion because Beam has set the pace to all Malawians to complement government’s efforts in assisting to change the socio-economic landscape of the country.
Said the President: “Girls’ education is an important pillar in my government’s agenda. I am aware of the benefits education of the girl child brings to the development of this country.”
The President said government started the girls’ hostels programme in 2007 and so far 18 hostels of four blocks each have been completed. He pledged government’s commitment in ensuring that every child in Malawi receives quality education.
On her part, the First Lady said Malawian girls are a rare jewel that glitters and shines; hence, Beam is concerned with the welfare and future of girls.
She said: “Your Excellency, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Beam has embraced the concept of holistic beauty. Beam looks at beauty beyond outward appearances.”
She said an educated community is more likely to beautify their environment; therefore, educating the girls is the surest way of beautifying the country.