Desiderio Phiri was born in 2004 and comes from Eli Village in Engalaweni, Mzimba District. His life was not easy from a young age. After the death of his mother, his family faced many challenges. His father was unable to take care of him, and this made Desiderio very vulnerable.
Because of these challenges, Desiderio was admitted to Lusubilo Community Care on 20 February 2012. At Lusubilo, he found safety, care, and support. The institution became a place where he could grow, learn, and heal. He received basic needs, emotional support, and guidance that helped him become a confident young person.
As part of the Malawi Government’s policy, children are encouraged to grow up in family settings rather than institutions. This helps children experience love, belonging, and full development. Following this directive, Lusubilo Community Care prepared Desiderio for reintegration into his family through the Lusubilo Reintegration Project, with financial support from Catholic Relief Services (CRS).
On 12 September 2024, Desiderio was successfully reintegrated back into his family in Eli Village. This was an important step in his life, as it allowed him to reconnect with his family and community. The reintegration process was carefully planned to make sure it would be safe and sustainable.
During Reintegration of Desiderio in Mzimba
To support the family and ensure food security, the household received farm inputs during the 2024–2025 farming season. This support helped the family produce enough food for the household. It also ensured that Desiderio would feel comfortable at home and not think that life in an institution was better than life with his family.
Following reintegration, Desiderio continued to show positive progress and determination to build a productive future. On 10 December 2025, after meeting all the requirements for case closure and demonstrating stability within the family, his case was officially closed.
Assistant Social Welfare Officer for Mzimba assessing Desiderio’s progress during follow up visit
However, Lusubilo’s support did not end abruptly. In the same month, Desiderio was supported with vocational skills training in driving, a skill that aligned with his long-standing interest and aspirations. In early December 2025, Desiderio successfully obtained his driver’s license, an achievement that made him very happy and proud.
“I was very happy when I got my driver’s license. It is something I have wanted for a long time. I thank Lusubilo for helping me achieve this dream,” he said.
After getting his license, Desiderio started helping a friend with driving work. Each time he drives, he receives MWK 25,000. With this money, he is able to buy basic household needs and support his family. Although this is not yet a permanent job, it helps him stay active and responsible while he continues looking for better employment.
Despite knowing that his case had been closed and that institutional support would come to an end, Desiderio expressed gratitude rather than fear or disappointment.
“Lusubilo has helped me a lot. Because of their support, I now have a skill that can help me earn a living. I am not worried about the future,” he shared.
Today, Desiderio is a hopeful and determined young man. His journey shows how family reintegration, food security support, and vocational training can change the life of a vulnerable child. He now looks forward to building a better future for himself and his family.
Desiderio also shared a message with children who are still living in institution
“I encourage my fellow children who are still at the institution to work hard in school and focus on their goals. Everything is possible if you work hard and if you don’t give up,” he said.
Desiderio Phiri’s story is a strong example of how children can overcome hardship when they receive the right support at the right time