Sunuzi Health Centre
The entrance is non-descript, really not more than a pathway. A break between two structures along the village dirt road. It’s rainy season, and cars often get stuck, making the path deeply rutted. The smell of Mandazi, a fried doughnut treat, wafts in the air. There are a few blankets stretched out nearby, with extra garden produce or clothing for sale. Compared to the larger towns, the scarcity is more obvious. Greetings are exchanged with Newton and Allan through the open windows, along with serious stares at the strangers in the back seat.
We try to balance as the Toyota 4-wheel drive pushes through the mud, bouncing from side to side. Open land stretches now. Scrubby bushes and baobab trees, with scattered cows moodily watching us go by.
The staff housing emerges first, bordering the road on the left. With a slight curve to the right, the vehicle comes to a stop at the Sunuzi Health Centre. It is at approximately 75% completion. There have been challenges as inflation and costs have increased, and the overall construction budget has had to be adjusted. We are four months past the planned completion date. However, it is far enough along that the government is beginning to assign staff, which is an exciting step forward for everyone.
This trip, Africa Mini Grid (AMG) completed the installation of solar power. It was rewarding to see the lights come on! This was a major milestone event.
Pictured Above: The AMG install group.
In Malawi, the Maternity Mortality Ratio (MMR), defined as maternal deaths per 100,000 live births for women of reproductive age (15-49 years), has decreased over the past decade. In 2000, the ratio was 573:100,000; by 2020, that number decreased to 381:100,000. The key factor was whether births were attended by skilled health personnel.*
World Bank Group reports that Malawi joins three other countries with the highest poverty rates globally. By the end of 2025, it was projected that 71.3 percent of Malawians would live below the $2.15 per day poverty line. This would increase the total number of people in poverty to 15.8 million.**
I am reminded of Proverbs 31:8-9, which encourages us to “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” We are so grateful for how many have helped reach the 75% completion point for the Sunuzi Health Centre. The Centre will provide another setting where skilled health personnel will attend births, and where some of the most needy ones in our world today will receive essential health services.
We can see the finish line! Please see the donate link below to help FVM complete that final 25%.
Staff Introduction
Navigating in Malawi makes us very happy for Allan Mitochi, who competently handles the driving in all kinds of road conditions! Allan is talented in many areas, and we are thankful for him. His sweet family, wife Pauline, son Razack and daughter Faith bring a light to his eyes. Allan has built his own house in the Zomba region, up on a hillside. At the bottom of his lane, he has set up a tent, and the community gathers to enjoy movies projected on the “big screen.” Allan runs a music DJ business in his spare time.
Mulunguzi House staff with Allan at left and Newton at right.
Zikomo kwambiri from the bottom of our hearts.
The Future Vision Ministries Family
Sources:
*(https://healthynewbornnetwork.org/country/malawi)
**(https://documents.worldbank.org, Malawi Poverty and Equity Brief: October 2025)
