Our Malawi Partnership: Changing Lives Through Cooperation

As we celebrate our fourth year of Our Malawi Partnership, one thing is clear: cooperation really does change the world.

This year, during the UN Year of the Woman Farmer, we’re shining a spotlight on the women at the heart of this work—their leadership, their voices, and their impact.

Inside Malawi: Where Cooperation Comes to Life

Our annual visit to Malawi brought the initiative to life in the most powerful way.

Sarah Aldred, Relationship Lead for Our Malawi Partnership, travelled alongside our key partners John Mulangeni, director, and Partnerships Manager, Jeru Munthali from Malawi Federation of Cooperatives (MAFECO)— meeting the people behind the progress and seeing firsthand how lives are being transformed.

The annual visit is about real conversations that lead to real change, including discussions with  senior government leaders such as Dr Bright Molande, Permanent Secretary for Industrialisation, Director of Cooperatives Jacinta Chipendo, and Ann Lipipa Chikoko the UN Women Country Representative on strengthening cooperative law and supporting the growth of Malawi’s cooperative movement.

Because when co‑operators come together—locally, nationally, and globally—change happens.

Women Leading the Way

One of the most powerful moments came when meeting Rosemary Kaphadzale, Chairwoman of Himacul Cooperative Union.

She said - "The support we received in achieving Fairtrade certification for our co-operative has been transformative. It has sparked enthusiasm in members who were once disheartened by unpredictable market prices. We are already seeing positive effects including membership growth in our co-op and renewed confidence in a fair price for our produce."

Her story is a testament to the transformational power of cooperation—not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

This is exactly why our partnership places women at its core.

Because when women thrive, communities thrive.

Why This Matters? Sarah reflected:

“Women make up over 70% of Malawi’s agricultural labour force and produce most of the country’s food—yet they remain undervalued and under‑supported.
If we invest in women farmers, we invest in food security, nutrition, and thriving communities.”

This is the difference cooperation makes.

Stronger Together: Partnerships That Deliver Impact

From macadamia farmers to coffee cooperatives, every visit reinforced one thing:
strong relationships are the backbone of lasting change.

At Mzuzu Coffee Cooperative Union, we reflected on progress, tackled challenges, and set priorities for the future—a partnership built on trust, accountability, and shared ambition.

Exciting Opportunities Ahead

We’re also exploring new product opportunities—including macadamia oil, honey, and Malawian chocolate—bringing Members and customers even more ways to support this incredible work.

A spontaneous visit to the Kwanza Cocoa chocolate factory showed just how much potential there is—and it tasted incredible too.

A Standout Moment: The Cooperative Trade Fair

A true highlight was the Cooperative Trade Fair in Blantyre—a vibrant celebration of Malawi’s cooperative movement.

From rice and coffee to handcrafted goods, the event showcased the innovation, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit of cooperatives across the country.

Leaders from government and international organisations came together, reinforcing a shared belief: co‑operatives are key to economic resilience and inclusive growth.

Real Impact in Communities

From access to clean water in cooperation with One Foundation’s Beyond Boreholes initiative, to our Funeral Business’ tree‑planting promise supporting environmental sustainability, the results are clear:

• Health improves
• Opportunities grow
• Communities thrive

This is what happens when we work together with purpose.

Together, We Are Stronger

Through Our Malawi Partnership, OurCoop demonstrates how through cooperation, make a meaningful and sustainable difference.  Alongside our members we can continue to:

• Strengthen livelihoods
• Keep value within communities
• Build long‑term resilience

Because co‑operation isn’t just a model—it’s a movement.

Co‑op Fortnight: Let’s Change the World Together

This Co‑op Fortnight, we’re celebrating the change we can make when we come together with a shared purpose.

Because when we co‑operate, we don’t just make a difference
— we change the world.

Visit HERE for more information.