AU commits $500,000 towards Cyclone Freddy
By Wezzie Gausi:
The African Union (AU) has committed to support Malawi with $500,000 to go towards survivors of Tropical Cyclone Freddy, which hit Southern Region districts.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lilongwe Wednesday, AU Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development Minata Samate Cessouma said the union is concerned with problems brought about by the disaster.
“It is for this reason that the union sent us to assess the damages caused.
“What happened to this country is very unfortunate and there is a need for more support. We have seen how people have lost their lives and properties. Many people have been left homeless and the situation is very bad. We, as a union, pledge our support towards the survivors until we register full recovery,” Cessouma said.
AU Ambassador to Malawi David Claude Pierre said the union would continue to support Malawi until it recovers.
He said the money that has been provided is a manifestation of solidarity in times of need.
“We have been following what happened in this country and we are afraid to say that the disaster hit us very bad. We, as an office, will see to it that we join hands with Malawi to deal with the aftermath of the cyclone,” Pierre said.
Tropical Cyclone Freddy, which hit Malawi on March 11 2023, has led to loss of life, injury and devastation of crops, homes and infrastructure in parts of Southern Malawi.
