The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has provided monetary relief to Malawi and other country’s reeling from the effects of floods which left thousands dead, injured and displaced.

In a statement to the government of Malawi, SADC said it will provide K111 million ($150,000) for flood victims.

Hage Geingob, president of Namibia and chairperson of the SADC said the economic cost and social impact of the cyclone to the affected countries and indeed the entire region is immeasurable.

“The cyclone, which killed hundreds of people and displaced thousands others, left a trail of destruction to land and infrastructure and provision of health care and welfare to the affected communities.”

Geingob has called on global effort to reduce global warming and the effects of climate change, variability while stepping up efforts to enhance adaptive capacities of developing countries.

The chairperson has also called on increased efforts in disaster risk management and asked for full operationalize of collaborative mechanism to ensure to ensure rapid joint and concerted responses to disasters.

Meanwhile, the Malawi government has commended its partners for their assistance to those affected by floods.

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Henry Mussa said government is grateful for the monetary contribution of 150,000 Euros from Pope Francis to be distributed equally among Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

The Pope’s contribution expresses his feeling of spiritual closeness and paternal encouragement towards the people and territories affected by the Cyclone Idai which hit the three countries.”

Mussa also provided details that the Episcopal Conference of Malawi directed that all Catholic parishes and churches dedicate all Sunday collections this Sunday towards flood victims as a sign of solidarity.

“We further commend the Republic of South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, the United Nations and several other organisations, both local and international and individuals for the assistance they have given and continue giving to Malawi towards the flood victims.”

Mussa said the support both monetary, relief items and operational machinery shows that they are friends in need.

Source : Kulinji