New Beginnings Post Cyclone Freddy

Discover our success stories from the Chris Endsor Malawi Build 2025, led by Chris Endsor as part of our Global Village programme.

 

ROSE

Figure 1: Rose's daughter, Roney, standing outside their house

 

Rose’s family is happy to be settled in their brand-new home, courtesy of Habitat for Humanity and the Chris Endsor Build team of global volunteers from Great Britain. After their old house was destroyed by Cyclone Freddy in 2023, they were forced to rent a small leaky space. Life was tough in that house but now they are grateful to Habitat for Humanity and the team for giving them a second chance at living a peaceful life.

“We are very relieved to have a safe roof over our heads. This house is a blessing, and we do not have to worry about the rain anymore.”- Rose commented.

As the rainy season approaches, Rose’s family is feeling calm and secure. They are no longer stressed about the weather, thanks to their strong beautiful new home. With their housing worries behind them, Rose’s family is looking forward to a brighter future. They are grateful to Habitat for Humanity and the Chris Endsor Build team for giving them a chance to live with dignity.

 

 

CHIMWEMWE

Figure 2: Chimwemwe and her family at their new house

Chimwemwe and her husband are now able to provide a safe and secure home for their grandchildren, thanks to the team constructing a new house for them. Their old home, made of burnt bricks and grass thatch, was badly damaged in Cyclone Freddy and although they repaired it, it was still not a safe place to live. The roof leaked when it rained, the walls were weak and with one wall of the house completely demolished, they just covered it with a big sack.

But all that is behind them now. Chimwemwe and her family have moved into their new home, constructed by the Chris Endsor Build Team, a group of dedicated global volunteers. The family’s daily life has transformed since moving in, they are now focusing on supporting their daily needs, like food and soap, rather than worrying about repairing their old house. The new house has brought dignity and a sense of security to the family.

 

 

 

SILACE 

Figure 3: Silace's daughters and 2 grandchildren at their new house

Silace’s family is finally getting a chance to live in a safe and decent home, thanks to their new home. The 55-year-old father of four had been struggling to provide a stable home for his family since their old house was destroyed by Cyclone Freddy in March 2023.

In July 2025, they were one of the families who got their house constructed by the group of Global Village volunteers. Silace’s daughter, is hopeful that the new house will bring a brighter future for her younger siblings and her own children as well.

The secure and stable living environment will allow them to focus on their studies even after coming back from school.  Some of the children also testified that they can study without worrying about their books getting wet. The family is forever thankful to the team of volunteers who contributed towards the transformation of their lives.

 

 

 

EDNA

Figure 4: Edna and her family at their house

Edna, a widow living in Mulanje, has been facing many challenges in providing for her family. She lives with her son, daughter and two grandchildren, and they all depend on piece work to make ends meet. Edna also does some piece work to contribute to the family income.

Their old home was in a bad state, with a leaky roof and walls that were not safe. It was a constant worry for Edna, who wanted a better life for her family. But thanks to the volunteers who constructed a new house for them, Edna’s family now has a safe and secure place to live. They are grateful for this new beginning and are looking forward to a brighter future. With a decent home, the family can now focus on their work and their children’s education, without worrying about their safety.

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