Standard Bank Plc and World Vision International have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on initiatives aimed at promoting environmental conservation and climate resilience in Malawi. This first partnership under Standard Bank’s “Mtengo Wanga – my tree” is funding forest regeneration to a tune of Mk240 million over 3 years. The symbolic signing ceremony in Lilongwe, will see the two organizations work together to restore 200 hectares of land and directly impact 10,000 community members.
Standard Bank’s “Mtengo Wanga”, aims to amplify and support initiatives related to restoring Malawi’s natural forest cover through partnerships that champion mindset-change towards conservation, knowledge transfer, and planting of trees. World Vision’s M’bwezera Nkhalango Project will be a key partner for Mtengo Wanga by supporting the regeneration of forests, forest-based enterprises and engaging school students in climate resilience efforts.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Graham Chipande, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank Plc, emphasized the bank’s commitment to driving Malawi’s growth while ensuring environmental sustainability. “Our partnership with World Vision International is underpinned by a strong alignment of purpose. We are passionate about doing business sustainably and partnering with organizations that understand the importance and impact of operating from that perspective is imperative,” he said.
Charles Chimombo, World Vision International’s Director of Programs, expressed gratitude for the partnership, saying, “We envision a world where children are secure, and the environment is protected. We appreciate Standard Bank’s partnership, demonstrates its dedication to environmental conservation which is a significant contributor to Malawi’s national growth and development.”
The partnership aligns with Malawi’s Vision 2063, which emphasizes the need for environmental action and stewardship. Standard Bank’s commitment to environmental conservation and climate resilience also stems from its broader organizational alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking (UN PRB), the Paris Agreement, and the African Union Agenda 2063.
World Vision International has a long-standing history in Malawi, working with communities since 1982. The organization brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in working with peoples to facilitate community-driven development.
The partnership is expected to make a significant impact in promoting environmental conservation and climate resilience in Malawi, and Standard Bank has extended an invitation to other organizations to partner with Mtengo Wanga for similar initiatives.
Mtengo Wanga is a strategic vehicle created to amplify and support initiatives related to restoring our natural forest cover through partnerships that champion mindset-change towards conservation, knowledge transfer and planting of trees. The Head of Business and Commercial Banking, Graham Chipande says this initiative hopes to expand the reach beyond Lilongwe through strategic partnerships with other like-minded organisations.
Standard Bank Plc also has strategic partnerships in education, health, women and youth as key areas of corporate social responsibility. The Bank further invests in trade and infrastructure, job creation and enterprise growth as well as financial inclusion.
