By: Maureen Kawerama
Mangochi, Malawi – June 25, 2024 – The Malawi Red Cross Society, in partnership with the Danish Red Cross, has launched a crucial support initiative for victims affected by recent floods and ongoing El Niño-induced dry spells. The intervention targets the areas in Mangochi district, where communities have faced severe displacement and food insecurity.
In a handover ceremony held on Tuesday, 25th June 2024, at area of Sub-T/A Kapichi, Nankhwari in Mangochi district, Prisca Chisala, the Director of Programs and Development at Malawi Red Cross Society, announced that 718 households in Mangochi district would receive monthly cash assistance of K50,000 for three months. Each household will thus receive a total of K150, 000 to support their basic needs and livelihoods.
“These funds are intended to help affected families meet their immediate needs while promoting resilience within the community,” said Chisala. “In addition to cash assistance, we are implementing hygiene promotion activities, such as providing laundry and bathing soaps, and conducting malnutrition screenings for children under five.”
The aid package also includes targeted nutritional support. The Red Cross is distributing Likuni Soya Blend to 120 households with lactating mothers, pregnant women, and children under two years old to enhance their nutritional status.
Nuria Beneitez, the Acting Country Manager for the Danish Red Cross, reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing support. “The Danish Red Cross will continue to back the Malawi Red Cross Society to ensure all affected individuals receive the necessary aid,” she stated.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. Atupele Jali, a 27-year-old recipient, shared, “The cash support received today will help me and my family start constructing a new house after our home was destroyed by the floods.”
Today, beneficiaries received K100, 000 as part of the total K150, 000 to be distributed over three months. This aid marks a significant step towards recovery and resilience for the flood and drought-affected communities in Mangochi.
