By Brenda Kayo:
The United States (US) Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAid) in partnership with Unicef, has pledged to support Malawi with $2.25 million (K3.9 billion) for assisting families affected by the impacts of Cyclone Freddy and El Nino.
Freddy, the longest-lasting tempest on record, caused massive devastation in Malawi and left thousands of families destitute while dry spells induced by El Nino have also left at least two million households food insecure.
In a statement made available to The Daily Times, USAid Communication Specialist Oris Chimenya says the support will provide access to water and sanitation facilities, therapeutic food to treat children suffering from severe malnutrition and protection services.
“The 12 months initiative will support more than 86,000 people including an estimated 46,000 children across four affected districts of Mulanje, Phalombe, Chiradzulu and Zomba,” the statement says.
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It adds that 1,800 boreholes, 100 protected wells and several piped water supply systems were damaged due to Cyclone Freddy.
Through the support, six new solar-powered water supply systems will be constructed in the affected areas to provide access to safe water.
At least 10,000 children suffering from acute malnutrition are also expected to benefit with access to essential lifesaving nutrition commodities.
Further, 5,000 women and children will have access to safe space, medical referrals and quality psychosocial support in response to the El Nino drought emergency.
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During the launch of the national El Nino-induced prolonged dry spell and flood response, President Lazarus Chakwera appealed for support totalling $446.74 million (K774 billion).
The Department of Disaster Management (Dodma) has disclosed that K32.3 billion has so far been mobilised for the El Nino response with pledges standing at K112.5 billion.
There is a gap of K637 billion, according to Dodma spokesperson Chipiliro Khamula.
Chakwera declared a state of disaster in 23 out of the country’s 28 districts over the dry spells induced by the warmer-than-usual weather phenomenon.
