Children in the area of Sub Traditional Authority Nkapita in Zomba district are facing various violations as a result of natural disasters, according to Tikondane Living Support Organisation (TIPOLISO).
The organization’s Program Manager, Shadreck Kapalamula, revealed that when disasters occur, children are left hopeless and vulnerable to exploitation.
Kapalamula made the remarks on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Zomba, where TIPOLISO updated them on the progress of the Tiyende Pamodzi project.
The project, funded by Save the Children, aims to empower local leaders, village structures, and children in disaster preparedness and reduction.
Kapalamula urged organizations and stakeholders to collaborate in protecting children from disasters.
“If organizations and government officials work together in training local structures, it can help efforts to protect children from natural disasters,” he said.
An assessment conducted by TIPOLISO showed that many households in the area face a hunger crisis due to low crop yields resulting from a dry spell.
Kapalamula emphasized that training local leaders and village committees is crucial in imparting knowledge on child protection and disaster preparedness.
Director of Future Vision Ministries, Newton Sindo, commended TIPOLISO’s efforts and highlighted the importance of supporting local organizations in reducing challenges faced by children during natural disasters.
Zomba District Social Welfare Officer, Francis Futu, praised TIPOLISO for the project, citing its impact in reducing child vulnerabilities in Sub T/A Nkapita.
Futu called on organizations and stakeholders to work together to ensure children live in a safe environment, free from the threat of natural disasters .
