For Cedrick and Mary Felix, residents of Katute Village under Traditional Authority Mabuka, Ruo Estate in Mulanje, life has taken a dramatic and positive turn since participating in the Tiyambe Project. Cedrick, once grappling with alcohol dependency and financial mismanagement, now stands as a symbol of commitment and hope for his family and community. Inspired by the project’s emphasis on personal accountability and family support, he decided to make significant changes in his life.
“Before the project, I barely gave my wife any money because I was too focused on drinking,” Cedrick admits. This often led to economic hardships for the family, especially as he withheld the resources his wife needed to manage their household. However, the Tiyambe Project helped him realize his responsibility toward his family and motivated him to make lasting changes. “Now, I have a vision. I stopped drinking and started to prioritize my family. I bought goats, opened a small shop, and even invested in tea, which after selling, helped us grow our resources,” he shares with pride. Cedrick has even started budgeting alongside his wife and is considering purchasing a sewing machine to support his family’s financial stability further.
Mary, his wife, has noticed remarkable changes as well. “Since the project, my husband has become more involved in family life. He helps around the house, cooks, and even joins me in the garden. We now make our budget together,” she explains. The impact of Cedrick’s commitment is clear in their improved family dynamics and their children’s lives. The children can now attend school regularly and enjoy proper meals, marking a significant step up from the struggles they once faced.
Cedrick hopes that his story will inspire other men in the community. “I advise my friends to think about the future, to have a vision for their families. When men share resources with their wives, everyone’s life improves,” he says earnestly. Mary, too, encourages others to participate in projects like Tiyambe, which she believes have been transformative for their family.
The Tiyambe Project has empowered Cedrick and Mary to rebuild their lives, proving that change is always possible with determination and the right support.
