VP Chilima launches relief aid distribution in Nsanje

Malawi Vice President on Friday launched World Vision Malawi food distribution programme to reach out to thousands of displaced people in the lower shire.

The food distribution exercise is part of the response to the recent flood crisis that forced President Arthur Peter Mutharika to declare state of national disaster.

Close to 200, 000 people in 15 districts have been affected by the disaster leading to several deaths and injuries.

Thousands of homes have also been destroyed, resulting in communities losing crops and livestock.

Displaced people are in camps at primary schools across the lower shire.

Speaking when he launched the distribution exercise at Bangula, Chilima assured the people that all the required aid will come.

“We are with you up to the end. As government we have the capacity to help and this is even boosted by our partners like World Vision,” said Chilima.

The VP then appealed to the people to stay put in uplands as the rains are still coming.

“Please don’t go back there at the time being. Stay put here until your safety is assured,” he appealed.

The veep’s call came at a time of reports of some affected people refusing to be airlifted to safer places insisting the flooded areas belong to their ancestors.