As of Tuesday, 5th March, 2024, an updated preliminary report from the district council states that 14,176 people have been affected; out of which 9,378 have been displaced and are in camps; whereas 4,798 are staying with their relations. Of the total number of the affected; 7,189 are males while 6,987 are females. A total of twelve camps have been established in Traditional Authorities (TAs) Mphonde and Kanyenda. The council has recorded six deaths and four injuries.

Records of Displaced Vulnerable Groups

So far, a total of 1,638 under-five children, 287 pregnant women, 305 lactating mothers, 46 people with disabilities and 82 elderly persons have been displaced and are living in camps.

Search and Rescue Operations

The search and rescue (SAR) team led by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) continues to undertake their selfless operations. With assistance and commitment of a local SAR team largely comprising fishermen, the team has located, rescued and evacuated 1,100 people who were trapped in various areas.

Accessibility to Affected Areas

Most affected areas remain inaccessible by roads due to extensive damage caused by the floods. The main road; M005, which connects Nkhotakota, Salima and Nkhata Bay; has been cut at Kaombe Bridge, Walemera and Nkoma. This impedes delivery of essential services; with humanitarian players largely relying on boats to reach affected areas.

Provision of Relief Assistance and Call for Continued Support

Government, through DoDMA and in collaboration with various humanitarian partners, companies and individuals of goodwill has provided various relief items which include maize flour, maize, blankets, clothes, dignity kits, beddings, shelter materials (i.e tents and tarpaulins) medical supplies, baby supplies (feeding bottles, diapers and baby wipes) and WASH materials (water treating chemicals, plates, cups, pails and mobile toilets).

However, with the number of displaced communities increasing, the above listed relief items are needed in large quantities and the department calls upon companies, organisations, humanitarian partners and individuals of goodwill to lend a helping hand.

The general public will be duly updated on damages caused by the floods and any related development.

For more information, please contact the Principal Information Management and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Chipiliro Raymond Khamula, on +265 (0) 999 043 228, (0) 884 572 844 E-mail; info.dodma@dodma.gov.mw.

Issued in Lilongwe on the 5th Day of March, 2024.

Signed

MANAGEMENT

Disaster Risk Reduction is Everyone’s Responsibility!

Pictures show provision of some relief items in affected areas.

Dr Lazarus Chakwera
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