Earlier this year, we witnessed a new door open for Transformational Community Development (TCD) near Yangon—this time, among the resilient Mro ethnic group, originally from Rakhine State. Due to the intensifying war in their homeland, these families were forced to relocate. They originally lived near Kyauk-taw Township, close to Pun-na-gyun, where Myat Hlae, our former TCD model village, was located. While cultural differences exist between the two groups, their shared longing for dignity, sustainability, and a thriving future is unmistakably strong.

Four years ago, when these families first arrived in the Yangon area, their needs were overwhelming. Community leaders reached out to GHNI for help. At the time, GHNI facilitated a connection with a trusted relief organization, which was able to provide timely assistance. Other partners stepped in to meet immediate needs.

However, life in the temporary Internally Displaced People (IDP) camp was unstable. The community eventually had to move again due to unforeseen challenges. Today, they have finally secured a permanent piece of land and begun rebuilding their lives from scratch—this time with renewed hope and determination.

After four long years, the community leaders reached out to GHNI once again—this time not for relief, but for development. They are ready to build a new future.

In a timely and providential alignment, our GHNI team has been seeking a new community near Yangon where we can consistently engage. We were able to visit the Mro community, conduct an initial assessment, and hold awareness meetings. The response was deeply encouraging. Despite their ongoing needs for food security, the community demonstrated a remarkable eagerness to embrace the TCD program.

Their leaders and members actively participated, showing great enthusiasm and ownership. They understand that sustainable transformation comes through participation, not dependency—and they are ready to take that step forward.

The GHNI team is preparing to visit the community weekly to continue relationship-building and foundational TCD training. We are excited to launch a full-scale TCD program in this community. We believe the timing is right, the door is open, and the hearts are willing.

This is not merely about another project. It is about seeing a displaced people group rise with dignity, build resilience, and become a light of transformation for generations to come.

Thank you,

Written by Solomon, GHNI National Field Leader