UN launches K236bn humanitarian appeal
The United Nations (UN) system has launched a humanitarian response to raise about $136.5 million (about K236.7 billion) needed for life-saving assistance, including food for 4.7 million most vulnerable people in Malawi.
The flash appeal seeks to address the devastating impact of El Niño-induced drought currently affecting the country. It is also expected to complement the flood response the Malawi Government launched in April this year.
In a statement dated July 24 2024, the UN urged its partners to support the cause, whose priority is on food assistance, which needs about $50.7 million (K88 billion) to cater for food procurement, distribution and cash transfers.
The statement said the funds will be crucial towards providing immediate relief and preventing further deterioration of the food and nutrition security situation in the country.
UN resident coordinator Rebecca Adda-Dontoh is quoted as having stated that the harshness of the drought calls for urgent and harmonised efforts.
She said: “This flash appeal is designed to support the national response efforts, addressing urgent needs and filling critical gaps to ensure comprehensive relief.
“We must act swiftly to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and support the people of Malawi in this time of crisis.”
In March this year, President Lazarus Chakwera declared a State of Disaster in 23 out of the country’s 28 districts due to inadequate rains and prolonged dry spells that damaged crops.
Last week, Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (Mvac) said the number of people in need of food aid will increase from 4.2 million to 5.7 million during the lean period from October this year.
The 2024 maize production, according to the Mvac report, registered a 17 percent drop to 2.9 million metric tonnes (MT) compared to last season’s 3.5 million MT.
This development pushed 4.2 million people to food insecurity status for the period between June and September 2024 in 14 districts.
