Malawi’s president appeals for aid after devastating floods

 

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera says Malawi will need help from both local and international partners to recover from the impact of Tropical Storm Ana.

“Mozambique suffered more than we have, so we understand that we’re not the only ones in need of help. All the same, we’re asking our partners for support. We cannot manage on our own,” said Chakwera.

According to the Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs, the storm has affected 845,685 people from 187,930 households in 17 districts, where 32 have been reported dead and 147 injured.

Another 20 people have been reported missing in the southern districts of Chikwawa and Mwanza.

“I am struggling to find the words to describe this disaster. There are places where people are yet to receive help because they have become inaccessible,” Chakwera said.

The Malawi leader said after assessing the damage that his ministers, who were sworn in on Sunday, will meet to discuss the budget for the next financial year to start in April instead of June as usual.