15 June, 2026
When leaders strengthen leaders: journeying through Malawi and Tanzania
One of the greatest joys of the Issachar Network is seeing leaders not only serve powerfully in their own communities, but to see them strengthen and equip one another, across borders.
Gareth recently traveled to visit Lyson and Elton in Malawi - to spend time with them and connect them with like minded leaders. During this time Lyson facilitated Disciple Making Movement (DMM) training, over a few days in Zomba. DMM is a small group, biblical approach model to facilitate encountering Jesus through Scripture - and to create disciples who make disciples.
The response from Lyson’s training has been so encouraging. Many shared on how clear this model is reflected in the life and ministry of Jesus, and serving and responding in obedience. What particularly resonated with them was the high impact and reproducibility of DMM—something that could be taken back into their own communities and immediately put into practice. They recognised the potential of this model to spread far beyond their own group, equipping others to make disciples and helping more people encounter Jesus authentically through His Word. The leaders were so encouraged that they asked Lyson if he could return the same month to train more people, and to assist with implementing these groups.
From Zomba, Lyson travelled north with Gareth to connect with Elton in Karonga, before crossing over into Mbeya, to be with Philip, in Tanzania - both for training with Phil Largent on Building the Inner Man.
As these leaders gathered, each one a giant in the faith serving within their own unique context, it was clear that while their approaches and strategies may differ, their shared commitment to seeing lives transformed creates a powerful sense of unity. God has entrusted each of them with a specific nation, people, and mission, equipping them with unique strengths, insights, and experiences for the work before them. But when these gifts are brought together and shared, we get to see an impact that reaches far beyond a single community or nation, creating a multiplying effect that strengthens the Church and advances the Kingdom.
As they learned from and encouraged one another, new opportunities began to emerge. Leaders in both Karonga and Mbeya expressed a desire for Lyson to return and conduct DMM training in their regions. What began as a networking opportunity now has the potential to become an exchange of Kingdom resources across nations.
This is the beauty of Kingdom partnership. We are excited to see where these connections lead and are grateful for the way God continues to weave together leaders across the nations for His purposes.
