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Who We Are & Why We Exist
El Chay Foundation is a registered non-governmental organisation based in Mzuzu, Malawi — dedicated to advancing learning, creating knowledge, and fostering innovation for the positive transformation of our nation and the wider world.
A Foundation Built on Purpose & Passion
El Chay Foundation was established in Mzuzu, Malawi, with a clear and urgent purpose: to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for individuals and communities across the Northern Region and beyond.
Founded by a group of passionate educators, community leaders, and development practitioners, the Foundation began its work by identifying the most pressing barriers to learning and economic participation — limited access to quality education, lack of vocational skills, and inadequate community infrastructure.
Over the years, El Chay Foundation has grown from a small community initiative into a recognised non-governmental organisation, running multiple programs that directly impact the lives of over 1,000 beneficiaries. Our work spans education, skills development, agriculture, construction, and community empowerment.
Registered and operating under Malawian law, the Foundation maintains full transparency in its operations and funding, ensuring that every contribution reaches those who need it most.
Founded
2010
Headquarters
Mzuzu, Malawi
Registration
Registered NGO
Focus Area
Northern Region
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10+
Years of Impact
What Drives Everything We Do
Our mission and values are not just words — they are the compass that guides every program, partnership, and decision we make.
Our Mission
To advance learning, create knowledge and foster innovateness for positive transformation of our nation and the wider world.
Our Vision
A Malawi where every individual — regardless of background — has access to quality education, marketable skills, and opportunities to reach their full potential.
Our Core Values
Compassion
We lead with empathy, placing the dignity and well-being of every beneficiary at the heart of all we do.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all our operations.
Innovation
We embrace creative thinking and evidence-based approaches to solve complex community challenges.
Community
We believe in the power of collective action — working alongside communities, not just for them.
Impact
Every program we run is designed to create measurable, lasting change that outlives our direct involvement.
Partnership
We build strong, mutually beneficial relationships with government, NGOs, donors, and local leaders.
Milestones That Define Us
From a small community initiative to a recognised NGO — every milestone reflects the dedication of our team and the trust of our communities.
- 2010
Foundation Established
El Chay Foundation was officially registered as a non-governmental organisation in Mzuzu, Malawi, with a founding team of educators and community leaders.
- 2012
First Education Program Launched
Launched our inaugural after-school tutoring and literacy program, reaching 80 primary school learners in the Mzuzu urban area.
- 2014
Vocational Skills Training Begins
Introduced vocational training in tailoring and carpentry, equipping 45 young people with marketable skills and supporting them to start small businesses.
- 2016
Community Infrastructure Projects
Completed construction of two community learning centres and a water well, improving access to clean water and education resources for over 300 community members.
- 2018
Agricultural Empowerment Program
Launched a sustainable agriculture program training smallholder farmers in modern techniques, increasing crop yields and food security for participating families.
- 2020
500+ Beneficiaries Milestone
Surpassed 500 cumulative beneficiaries across all programs — a landmark moment that validated the Foundation's community-centred approach.
- 2022
Digital Literacy Program Launched
Introduced a 12-week Digital Literacy program for youth, bridging the digital divide and equipping over 250 young people with computer and internet skills.
- 2024
1,000+ Lives Impacted
Reached the milestone of 1,000+ total beneficiaries, with 15+ active programs spanning education, skills development, agriculture, and community empowerment.
The People Behind the Mission
Our dedicated team of professionals and community leaders work tirelessly to deliver programs that transform lives across Malawi.
Annual Reports & Downloads
We are committed to full transparency. Our annual reports detail our programs, impact, and financial stewardship for every year of operation.
Annual Report 2024
A comprehensive overview of our programs, impact metrics, financial statements, and strategic priorities for the year.
Annual Report 2023
Highlights from our Digital Literacy launch, vocational training outcomes, and community infrastructure milestones.
Annual Report 2022
Documenting the expansion of our programs to new communities, partnership growth, and the 500+ beneficiaries milestone.
Annual Report 2021
Resilience during challenging times — how El Chay Foundation adapted its programs and continued serving communities.
For older reports or specific financial documents, please contact us directly.