A powerful transformation is unfolding in Msundwe Village, Malawi. The Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI), through its InnerCity Mission for Children, is proud to announce the commissioning of the first-ever free school in the region—ICM Country School, a beacon of light and opportunity for children who once had no access to formal education.
This milestone is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about building futures, unlocking potential, and planting seeds of knowledge that will grow for generations. What began a few months ago as a groundbreaking ceremony on the dusty grounds of Msundwe has now become a fully equipped, beautiful learning facility dedicated to educating indigent children at absolutely no cost.
A Vision Realized Through Compassion
The story of the ICM Country School is rooted in the vision of Chris Oyakhilome, the founder of COFI, whose mission is to ensure that no child is left behind. Recognizing that millions of children around the world remain out of school due to poverty, COFI’s InnerCity Mission has continued to pioneer sustainable educational solutions in underserved communities—and Malawi is now a shining example.
“I want to thank Pastor Chris and the Foundation for considering Malawi and my constituency in Msundwe. This school will help raise educated leaders among our people,” shared a local representative during the groundbreaking event.
For families in Msundwe, this development is nothing short of miraculous. Many parents, who have never had the opportunity to receive formal education themselves, are now rejoicing over the fact that their children will not only learn to read and write, but will be taught in English, opening doors far beyond their rural village.
A Community Transformed
In the final days of construction, workers added finishing touches while excited children gathered in anticipation. Smiles lit up the faces of parents and guardians who now see a future full of possibilities. The air was filled with gratitude and joy as community members shared emotional words of thanks:
“We are very happy and grateful to God. This school will teach our children the Word of God and also prepare them academically. They will go places we never could.”
The significance of this project was not lost on community leaders, who emphasized the long-term impact of free education on the local population. One parent stated, “What you have done for us, please do for other countries too. The chiefs, the parents, the children—everyone is grateful. This is a blessing that we will never forget.”
Light Has Come to Msundwe
More than anything, the ICM Country School stands as a symbol of light in a world where too many children remain in the shadows of poverty and illiteracy. Education is light—and through this initiative, light has come to Msundwe Village. From this place, future doctors, teachers, leaders, and ministers will rise. As one community leader beautifully said, “Our message will be preached from this community to the ends of Malawi, because from here we are producing lights.”
This commissioning is a testament to what can happen when compassion meets action. Through the unwavering support of COFI partners and sponsors around the world, Pastor Chris’ vision continues to come alive in tangible, life-changing ways.
Continuing the Mission
The successful launch of the ICM Country School in Malawi is only the beginning. COFI and the InnerCity Mission are committed to replicating this model across Africa and beyond, reaching the world’s most vulnerable children with the love of Christ, the gift of education, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
Every classroom built, every child empowered, and every life transformed is a step closer to ending the cycle of poverty once and for all.
Support this mission. Be a part of the story.
To learn more or to become a partner, visit www.theinnercitymission.ngo
