Following a visit by representatives from local churches in Coldstream last summer, we have been moved by the enormous difficulties and poverty facing schools in rural Malawi to take action.

The rural Msalabani School at Zomba in South-Eastern Malawi has over 2000 children, but at present, only the oldest children have furniture for their classroom. Faced with the lack of even basic facilities, no electricity and large class sizes, learning becomes even more of a challenge for primary children. That teachers can teach and children learn under such circumstances is nothing short of a miracle.

Following the move of the Duns Primary School to new premises, we were able to secure a large quantity of much-needed school furniture for the school in Malawi. Without the intervention of members of the Duns Rotary Club, hundreds of perfectly serviceable tables and chairs were destined for the scrapheap. Now we need to get them to Zomba. The HeadTeacher at Msalabani School is filled with hope that we will be able to help them.

Working in conjunction with other charities, the cheapest container transport from Duns to Blantyre will cost £2000.

The Rotary Club in Blantyre have promised to assist with transport from the Blantyre for the final 100 km and we will be working alongside them to set up the classrooms.