Former presidents call for Cyclone Freddy support

Former presidents Bakili Muluzi and Joyce Banda have appealed to the private sector and Malawians of goodwill to support Cyclone Freddy survivors during the recovery phase.

The two made the appeal on Thursday in Domasi, Zomba during the handover of 14 houses constructed by Joyce Banda Foundation for cyclone survivors.

Muluzi said government needs partners to complement its efforts in reaching out to every affected household, adding that government in collaboration with the corporate world, development partners and people of goodwill should play a role to ensure survivors recover from the effects of the disaster.

He further said as former presidents and goodwill ambassadors, they will use their connections to get financial resources to support survivors who are in need of humanitarian assistance in the recovery phase.

“While we’re doing our part, let me appeal to the private sector, commercial banks and all of you to come and support us. Your contributions will play a crucial role in improving lives of those affected by the cyclone,” said Muluzi.

He hailed his fellow former president for leading by example, saying there are many people in the country that have abundant resources but it takes a person of goodwill to see the need to help.

“You started doing good things for this country way back and I salute you for this. Together, let’s continue serving this country,” he added, in reference to Banda.

Muluzi, who was the guest of honour at the event, promised to support Banda in providing shelter to the homeless that suffered from the cyclone.

Banda, who is founder of Joyce Banda Foundation, said she was deeply touched by the effects of the disaster, adding that this is why her foundation constructed the houses.

“Today, I would like to announce that we’re launching the second phase of constructing houses and this will continue,” she said.

Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Owen Chomanika hailed the two former leaders for their continued love for the country.

“As government, we would like to applaud you for being goodwill ambassadors to the country and the President’s [Lazarus Chakwera] trust in you was not a mistake,” he said.

During the event, Muluzi also donated maize flour and beans to the affected people.