The first batch of about 1,374 tonnes of maize secured by the World Food Programme (WFP) arrived in the country from Tanzania on Wednesday, as part of strides towards addressing food scarcity caused by El Niño-induced prolonged dry spells.
The shipment is part of a larger consignment of 30,000 tonnes acquired by the WFP.
WFP Country Director Paul Turnbull said the intervention is critical in safeguarding vulnerable sections of the country’s population.
The shipment is the initial step in addressing the immediate needs of millions of Malawians affected by the devastating drought.
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Turnbull said WFP is mobilising resources from partners to assist communities severely impacted by the crisis.
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“The El Niño-induced drought and flooding have precipitated a prolonged hunger crisis, necessitating a comprehensive, large-scale, and multi-sectoral response,” Turnbull said.
He assured that WFP is working closely with the Malawian government and other humanitarian and development partners to scale up the response and avert large-scale loss of life.
The coordinated effort aims to restore livelihoods and provide general food assistance to over 5.7 million people in affected areas.
Director of Disaster Preparedness and Response at the Department of Disaster Management Affairs Moses Chimphepo said the support is vital for ensuring that those most affected by the drought have access to food.
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He said the El Niño-induced drought has severely impacted agriculture outcomes, significantly reducing crop yields and exacerbating food insecurity in the country.
Chimphepo highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Malawian government and international partners in securing food aid for the affected population.
“The partnership with WFP and other international organisations is crucial in our response to this crisis,” he said.
