In a community once defined by disasters, a new narrative is taking root in Sub-TA Chimbalanga. The Pongwe Village Disaster Risk Management Committee (VDRMC) is reshaping its story, as women step into leadership roles and local voices guide the community’s plans.
Far from being just another group on paper, the 15-member Pongwe VDRMC, in partnership with YODEP and Save the Children through Localization Project, has made inclusion a priority. By ensuring women, young people, and other marginalized groups have a seat at the table, the committee brings diverse perspectives to the forefront, helping shape resilient, community-led solutions.
Trained by YODEP in resource mobilization, Pongwe has cultivated farmland through an initiative designed and driven by the committee, especially women. Together, they have grown rice (on half an acre, with an expected yield of six bags), groundnuts, and pigeon peas. Each harvest serves as both a buffer against hunger and a symbol of self-reliance, acting as an emergency reserve during disasters. The effort was fuelled by the committee’s own contributions: seeds, savings, and the collective labour of many hands.
Pongwe’s journey is proof that resilience isn’t something you wait for, it’s something you build. With women leading the charge and every voice valued, the committee has transformed uncertainty into strength. As VDRMC Chairperson Unice reflects, “We didn’t just prepare for disasters, we prepared to lead through them.”
What’s happening in Pongwe isn’t just a story about crops or committees, it’s a demonstration of anticipatory action in disaster management. It helps keep the community well-prepared to respond to any crisis.
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