United Kingdom, Tanzania and Zambia provide humanitarian, search and rescue assistance
As Malawi reels in the effects of the destructive Cyclone Freddy, several foreign governments have come in with all manner of support.
They include the United Kingdom, Tanzania and Zambia.
The Tanzanian government says it will assist Malawi with cash and humanitarian supplies worth $1 million (about K1 billion).
In a statement released by the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Malawi, Tanzania says it will also provide two military helicopters to support search and rescue exercise and move supplies to the affected people in the Southern region.
According to the statement, the helicopters will be supported by a total of 100 service men and women consisting of engineers, drivers, medical personnel, logistical personnel and air assets operators. The supplies include mattresses, tents, blankets and 100 metric tonnes of flour which have already started arriving in the country.
The Zambian government has also come in to support Malawi. Friday, Zambian High Commissioner to Malawi, Panji Kaunda, presented the first batch of a donation which came through Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe Friday.
The donated items include tents, blankets, food items, chlorine and sanitary kits.
According to Kaunda, other bulky items such as maize, beans, salt and others are already in transit by road through Mchinji.
Addressing the media, Kaunda said Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema could not ignore Malawians during this time of tragedy.
“Malawi and Zambia are one. It is this oneness that we are trying to show. When brothers have problems they help each other. This is exactly what president Hichilema is trying to show to president Chakwera,” Kaunda said.
Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda received the items on behalf of the government.
She said the government is grateful for the donation as the country is passing through difficult time.
She further disclosed that the Zambian government has also committed to send helicopters and personnel to help in the search and rescue mission as people in some affected areas are still stranded due to impassable roads and bridges.
From overseas, Malawi Friday received the first part of search and rescue experts from the United Kingdom.
High Commissioner to Malawi Sophia Willitts-King said Friday the UK government stands with Malawi during this time of great need.
