In response to the devastating floods that recently struck parts of Zomba District, ADRA Malawi has provided essential non-food items to affected households in Mtu manji. The intervention aims to support vulnerable families who have lost homes, crops, and personal belongings following days of heavy rainfall.
Malawi continues to experience recurring climate-related disasters, with floods being among the most destructive. The recent heavy rains caused the Domasi River to overflow, destroying a protective dyke that had previously safeguarded surrounding communities. As a result, homes collapsed, farmlands were washed away, and families were left without basic necessities.
Communities in Mtumanji and surrounding areas were particularly affected, with many households displaced and forced to seek temporary shelter under difficult conditions. The flooding not only disrupted livelihoods but also increased vulnerability to health risks due to lack of clean water and adequate shelter.
To alleviate the immediate needs of affected families, ADRA Malawi distributed a range of essential non-food items, including:
- Sleeping mats
- Plastic buckets
- Cups and plates
- Blankets
These items are critical for restoring dignity and improving living conditions, especially as the region approaches the cold season.
Speaking on behalf of the Disaster Risk Management team, Great Munthali highlighted the severity of the situation:
“The heavy rains caused the Domasi River to flood, destroying the dyke that protected communities. This led to the collapse of houses, destruction of crops, and loss of property. The support from ADRA Malawi will help affected families recover, especially as blankets will provide warmth during the cold season and buckets will help households store safe water.”
Beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude for the timely assistance. Daud Machemba, one of the affected residents, shared:
“The three days of continuous rain left us with nothing. This support from ADRA Malawi will help us a lot as a community.”
Similarly, Ethel Masamba from Nkhombe Village emphasized the impact of the intervention:
“This assistance has come at the right time. We lost everything, and this gives us a new start. I live with an elderly woman, and we had nothing to support ourselves. This will truly help us rebuild our lives.”
During the distribution event, Dr Martha Kamwiyo reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to responding to emergencies:
“After learning about the floods and recognizing that Zomba is among the affected districts, we felt compelled to respond. The items we have provided today are part of our effort to support affected communities during this difficult time.”
The response was made possible through collaborative support from ADRA International, ADRA Africa, and the Malawi Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. This partnership underscores the importance of coordinated efforts in delivering timely humanitarian assistance.
While the immediate needs are being addressed, the road to recovery remains long for affected communities. Continued support will be essential in rebuilding homes, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening resilience against future disasters.
ADRA Malawi remains committed to standing with vulnerable communities, providing both emergency relief and long-term recovery support in line with its mission of serving humanity so all may live as God intended.
