MRA gives out impounded maize flour to Zomba flood victims

Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) on Tuesday, 17 February 2015, gave maize flour weighing 30 metric tonnes to flood victims in Zomba through the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA).

The maize flour was intercepted and impounded as it was illegally being exported out of the country through Chiponde. It is illegal to export maize and maize products from Malawi.

The flour, worth K4.6 million, was handed over to DODMA through the Zomba District Commissioner, Bennett Nkasala, who expressed gratitude to the MRA.

“Over 24,000 families have been affected by the floods here in Zomba and currently around 11,000 still need relief items such as food and shelter. We are, therefore, very grateful to MRA as this maize flour will greatly assist us in taking care of the flood victims in the district who are in dire need of help,” said Nkasala.

Speaking on behalf of MRA, the Manager for Taxpayer Education, McHizzal Kawanga, said MRA in consultation with DODMA decided to donate the maize flour in Zomba in order to support Government efforts in providing food to those affected by the floods in the country.

“As you are aware, the Government is working around the clock to ensure that our brothers and sisters including children affected by the floods have food and shelter and this is why MRA is making this donation today,” said Kawanga.

Three weeks ago MRA employees collectively contributed K2 million to assist the Government to deal with the plight of those displaced by the floods and the flour go a long way in alleviating the suffering of such people.

MRA has assured the public that is alert and smugglers will be caught and punished in accordance with the law.