President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera on Monday inaugurated this year’s Poppy Week with an appeal to the general public to be supporting war veterans and ex-service men.

Launching the week at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre, the President, who is also the Commander-In-Chief of the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) said his administration is concerned with the hardships war veterans and ex-service men are facing and his Government will handle the situation as “a matter of urgency.”

Poppy Week starts on 26th October every year and wraps up with the Remembrance Sunday which this year will fall on November 8.

“People and private institutions must join hands with government in supporting war veterans and ex-service men.

“Buying of Poppy flowers is also a sign of appreciation to the gallant men and women who have sacrificed a lot for the peace and freedom that is being enjoyed now here in Malawi and all over the world,” said the Malawi leader.

Chakwera disclosed that his administration will swiftly address the challenges that war veterans and ex-service men are facing.

The Malawi leader has expressed commitment that his government will make sure that the organization that is overseeing war veterans and ex-servicemen is well strengthened and well-funded for the betterment of the noble men and women.

Chakwera, who is also the patron for Veterans and Ex Servicemen League of Malawi (VELOM) has stressed that supporting such a community is a responsibility for all.

The chairperson for VELOM Brigadier Charles Kalumo (Rtd) commended the Malawi leader for pledging unwavering support to their initiatives.

Staff Sergeant James Matupa, a war veteran from Zomba Memorial Home, described the Government’s commitment as very commendable.

Chakwera bought the inaugural poppy flower to mark the begging of the Poppy Week.

During the event, the country’s leader was among others flanked by the Deputy Minister of Defense Jean Sendeza and MDF Commander General Vincent Nundwe.