What started as a business incubation programme has grown into thriving enterprises for young entrepreneurs across Mzimba District. Through a series of market fairs organized by Emerge Livelihoods in collaboration with ADRA Malawi, 100 adolescents and youth had the opportunity to showcase their products, connect with customers, and build relationships that will support the continued growth of their businesses.
The market fairs, held in the Traditional Authorities of Mberwa, Muzikubora, and Kampingo Sibande, brought together young entrepreneurs trained under the Green Jobs for Adolescents and Youth Project. The participants, who established businesses in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and ecotourism, displayed a wide range of products and services while engaging directly with community members and potential customers.
Beyond providing a marketplace, the fairs created an environment where participants interacted with government departments responsible for Trade, Labour, Youth, and Community Development, as well as representatives from MEDEF and NBS. These interactions provided valuable information on business development services, financing opportunities, and other support available to help young enterprises grow and become more sustainable.
The events also attracted district officials, community leaders, and members of the public, who encouraged local communities to support businesses owned by young people. Their participation reinforced the importance of creating market opportunities that enable youth-led enterprises to thrive while contributing to local economic development.
For many participants, the market fairs represented more than an opportunity to sell products they were a celebration of how far they had come since completing the project’s business incubation programme.
Among them was Shadreck Mphande from Traditional Authority Kampingo Sibande. After completing training in ecotourism, Shadreck and his friends established a restaurant that has since become a source of income for the group.
Reflecting on the impact of the project, Shadreck said:
“We have benefited greatly from the training we received. Before the project, we used to stay idle, but now we are running a business that provides income for our daily needs. We are also grateful to the banks and MEDEF for meeting with us and introducing loan opportunities that will help us expand our business.”
His experience mirrors that of many young entrepreneurs who transformed the skills they acquired through the Green Jobs Project into viable businesses. With continued mentorship and support, participants have moved beyond training to becoming business owners who are creating employment, generating income, and contributing to the economic development of their communities.
By connecting young entrepreneurs with customers, financial institutions, government stakeholders, and local leaders, the market fairs strengthened the business ecosystem needed for youth enterprises to succeed. The events demonstrated that when young people are equipped with practical skills, access to markets, and strong partnerships, they can build resilient businesses capable of sustaining their livelihoods long after project support has ended.
The successful market fairs reaffirmed the commitment of ADRA Malawi, Emerge Livelihoods and Save the Children Malawi to empowering adolescents and youth through entrepreneurship, ensuring that the businesses established under the Green Jobs for Adolescents and Youth Project continue to grow, create opportunities, and contribute to sustainable community development.
