By Watipaso Mzungu:
The Minister of Transport and Public Works, Feston Kaupa, has assured survivors of recent natural disasters in selected districts of sustained government support to ensure their safety and security.
Kaupa made this commitment during an impromptu visit to 250 displaced families from Group Village Head Chiopera in Traditional Authority Kalimanjira, Nkhotakota, last night.
“Through President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, I would like to assure you of the government’s commitment to providing sustained support through this difficult time. However, let me emphasize the need for collective efforts to mitigate the impact of disasters,” he said.
The minister’s assurance comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of recent natural disasters, affecting communities and infrastructure. Kaupa’s visit aimed to provide assurance of government support and assess the situation on the ground.
The affected districts, including Nkhotakota, have faced severe flooding, resulting in four deaths and over 8000 households impacted.
In response, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has launched emergency operations, distributing relief items such as food and blankets, and initiating evacuation exercises in high-risk areas.
Flanked by Commissioner for DoDMA, Wilson Moleni, District Commissioner for Nkhotakota, and senior officers from the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) and Malawi Police Service, Kupa said his night visit to Chididi Community Day Secondary School, where the survivors have been sheltered, highlights the government’s commitment to disaster management and response.
After his brief interaction with the survivors, Kaupa handed food items, including maize and beans, and blankets and buckets for their use at the camp.
“The government has made a deliberate arrangements to ensure that more food supplies and other essentials are reaching you timely. We’re working hand in hand with the MDF and the police to ensure that there’s no disruption of food supplies to you while you are in the camp,” he said.
GHV Chiopera commended the government for its quick response.
“We can’t thank you enough. You’ve just come on time and we don’t take your urgent response for granted. Therefore, on behalf of my subjects, I wish to extend my gratitude to the President, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, for delegating you to come and see for yourself the tragedy that has hit us,” said the chief.
In his remarks, Moleni disclosed that government has been working to improve disaster management plans, especially after recent flooding incidents.
Among others, the Commissioner said DoDMA has been collaborating with local and international development partners to develop multi-hazard contingency plans and strengthen early warning systems.
