Chilobwe came alive on Thursday, 5th June, as over 500 people gathered for a powerful Theatre for Development performance under our Engaging Communities on Climate and Health project. With drums beating, voices rising, and stories unfolding on stage, the community took a front-row seat not just as audience members but as active participants in the climate and health conversation.

This wasn’t just theatre. It was a call to action.

Working alongside the vibrant communities of Zingwangwa and Chilobwe, we turned the spotlight on real-life climate challenges, floods, waterborne diseases, and how these are affecting everyday health. The performance was a follow-up to our initial spark in Soche, and this time, the flames of awareness burned even brighter.

“We are part of the problem, but we can also be part of the solution,” declared one passionate resident, rising from the crowd. “If we stop cutting down trees, we protect both our environment and our health. And these cyclones can be reduced.”

The message hit home. Heads nodded. Applause followed. This was more than performance; it was the beginning of a community-led movement.

Through stories, laughter, and raw honesty, the community reminded us that real change starts with real voices. And this is just the beginning.