Theory of Change

How we are championing a thriving ecosystem transitioning individuals and communities from extreme poverty

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By addressing the underlying causes of poverty in Africa, Emerge Livelihoods enables individuals and communities in Malawi and beyond to become leaders and entrepreneurs, creating sustainable livelihoods, protecting the surrounding environment, and powering a thriving future for themselves and their households.

Our theory of change showcases our thought process and actionable plans derived to contribute towards eradicating poverty in Southern Africa.

The problem

Limited structural transformation of the Malawian economy has led to increased poverty levels amongst individuals and communities, and constrained opportunities for decent and full-time employment especially for the youth. People dwelling in diverse communities across Southern Africa experience challenges in transitioning from extreme poverty due to lack of opportunities, underemployment and unemployment linked to skills mismatch, infrastructure gaps, climate change, limited access to finance and gender inequality that derails socio-economic vulnerability.

The solution

Emerge Livelihoods delivers a holistic graduation approach that addresses key contributors of poverty and equips individuals and communities with relevant tools and resources, skills and knowledge to become leaders and entrepreneurs whilst amplifying their self-reliance. Our approach incorporates human capital development through leadership development, education and training, private sector development through sustainable entrepreneurship promotion focused on micro, small and medium enterprises contributing towards environmental sustainability and employment creation, increased access to digital services and connectivity through technology and innovation hubs and ecosystem engagement.

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As individuals benefit from talent nurturing and leadership skills and knowledge through our holistic approach there will be an increase in local leadership at the center of solutions and growth in micro, small and medium enterprise development with strong focus on environmentally sustainable businesses and amplified financial literacy and financial savings and resource management amongst individuals and communities aligned with an increase in access to local infrastructures and support tools and resources.

Sustainable increase in employability, opportunity access, individual and household revenues. Strengthened MSMEs transitioning to high growth enterprises and improved gender inclusivity. Through an amplified ecosystem, individuals and communities will have increased social capital, technology adoption and enabling environment with ease of equitable access to finance and initiatives that contribute towards natural ecosystem restoration and conservation

Equipped with leadership and sustainable enterprises contributing towards available and long-term revenue streams, individual and household savings allowing them transition out of extreme poverty. Furthermore, communities can adapt from climate shocks and invest in diverse necessities including education, food and security, health and well-being – all championing a thriving ecosystem reducing extreme poverty across Malawi and beyond.