Mitongwe Woodland Reserve
Purchasing a large plot of land may seem daunting, but when it is done with a purpose, the rewards can be immense. In July 2019, our organization, in partnership with Tree of Life, purchased a 350-hectare piece of land in Malawi with the goal of empowering the surrounding communities. This area is home to around 12 villages, with over 12,000 people residing there.
We understand that poverty is a complex problem with various contributing factors. That's why we're taking a comprehensive approach to our project. Together with our partner, Tree of Life, we're working to provide villagers access to education, healthcare, and sustainable agriculture practices. Our goal is not only to enhance the quality of life for the people in these communities but also to empower them to be self-reliant.
We understand that this project will take time, effort, and resources but we are committed to seeing it through. Our goal is to empower these communities to take control of their own futures and to create a brighter tomorrow for themselves and their families.
Welcome to Mitongwe Woodland Reserve! In this video, we will take you on a journey through our beautiful reserve and show you all the amazing things that make Mitongwe such a unique and special place.
Let's take a look at the landscape. Mitongwe is located in the heart of a lush woodland reserve, surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking views. As we soar high above the reserve, you can see the full extent of the woodland and all the different types of vegetation that thrive in this area. From towering trees to a wide range of flora and fauna, there is so much to see and explore.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey through Mitongwe Woodland Reserve.
The Community Center is located at the heart of Mitongwe Town Center and serves as a focal point for the community. It offers various services and activities for the residents, such as a preschool program that operates 5 days a week, a library with a collection of books donated from abroad, a Sports Ministry that provides equipment and coaching, and an agriculture training course that teaches farming skills in the main hall. The building is also used for hosting large events with the local leaders or the staff. It is a versatile and valuable facility for the community.
Community Center
Our Church is a place where you can experience the love of God through worship and fellowship. Every week, we gather for a service that features uplifting music and inspiring preaching. We also celebrate special occasions such as Easter with weekend retreats in our building. In addition, we organize small events for our Church members to connect and grow together.
Church
The farm has been transformed into a large agroforestry plot. Producing a variety of plants and trees and herbs and flowers, beautifully growing together. The abundance of bananas and papayas are amazing. The farm not only produces food but is used as a training facility for local farmers. It also serves as a teaching farm for those interested in agroforestry from all around the world. The plots are irrigated using solar and can produce three harvests a year. We also have a wormery that keeps the soil nicely fertilized.
The Farm
The Health and Wellness is a new facility that is currently being built and will be completed by the Fall of 2023. It will offer a range of services and programs to promote health and wellness for the Farm residents and the neighbouring communities. Some of the features of the facility include:
A first aid clinic that can provide basic medical care and referrals to other health providers.
-An education center that can teach people about nutrition, hygiene, exercise, mental health, and other aspects of well-being.
-A natural medicine pharmacy that can dispense herbal remedies and supplements made from the plants grown on the Farm.
A health workshop series that can cover topics such as disease prevention, stress management, natural healing, and more.
Health and Wellness Center
Mitongwe Town Square is the first destination for newcomers. They will find the Office where the Admin team is ready to welcome them and introduce them to Mitongwe. Next to the Office, there is a dorm that can accommodate up to 40 people. It also has a dining area for group meals. The kitchen behind the dorm serves the visitors, the Preschool and the Young Warrior Programs. The food is prepared on a wood-burning fuel-efficient stove. The kitchen is always full of joy and laughter!
Office and Dormitory
Dehydration Facility
The Dehydration Facility is a vital part of the Town Square. It uses 9 solar dehydrators to dry the fruits and vegetables that are grown in the community garden. The dried produce is then packed and stored in the new storage building that is under construction. The dehydration process preserves the food and reduces its weight and volume, making it easier to transport and store.
Livestock
Our farm is home to cows and sheep, which play a vital role in our operation. These animals provide essential manure for our plants, and the cows even contribute to the transformation of land into productive fields by spreading seeds with their hooves. In addition to our farming practices, we also provide husbandry education for other local farmers who own cattle to help them take better care of their herds.
Guesthouse
Our guesthouse is situated just a few kilometres uphill from the bustling Town Square, providing an idyllic and peaceful setting. Our guests enjoy the serene ambience, breathtaking sunsets, and the lively chatter of monkeys in the morning. Our facility boasts an array of accommodation options, including luxurious tents, and during the hotter months, we offer an above-ground pool to keep you cool. As the sun sets, the sound of laughter and merriment can be heard around the large dining table while guests relish delicious meals and engaging games.
