Rainstorm survivors in Mchinji get relief items

Malawi Red Cross Society has donated shelter materials, kitchen utensils and blankets to 190 households affected by rainstorms in Mchinji District.

Speaking on Friday during the handover, Malawi Red Cross Society data team lead Gumbi Gumbi advised the people to construct disaster-resilient houses and those from disaster-prone areas to relocate to safer areas.

“This is happening when the rainy season has just started and according to the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, the country is expected to receive normal to above normal rainfall,” he said.

Senior Chief Mlonyeni appealed for more help from duty-bearers and well-wishers.

“The rainstorms have destroyed many houses and people have lost food items,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Elizabeth Yolonimo, said the rainstorm destroyed her home.

“I need plastic sheets and other resources to repair my house,” she said.

Another beneficiary said he will follow the advice given by Malawi Red Cross Society.

“After the rainy season, I will build a disaster-resilient house,” he said.

Mchinji District Council human resources development officer Judith Mbuna advised the beneficiaries not to sell the items.

The donation came from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid through Malawi Red Cross Society.

The affected households come from traditional authorities Mlonyeni, Mavwere, Nyoka, Gumba, Kawere, Simphasi and sub-traditional Authority Matuamba.

This year’s rain has also affected people in Mzuzu, Ntcheu and Nsanje districts.