At least 17 people from Chipole Village, under Chief Mbela in Balaka, reportedly collapsed last week due to severe hunger, as the food crisis continues to grip various parts of the country.

Chief Mbela has expressed concern that while nearby villages under Chief Kachenga are receiving maize relief, his area has been left out. He has since called on the government and humanitarian organizations to intervene and assist his people.

Balaka District Council Chairperson Pharaoh Kambiri has warned that the situation may be even worse than reported, stating that many others in different villages are also collapsing due to hunger. He noted that the maize being distributed is not enough to meet the high demand in the district.

Meanwhile, Alick Milanzi, the Disaster Risk Management Officer for Balaka, has confirmed that a report on the crisis has been submitted to the relevant authorities for urgent action.

Reacting to the matter, Balaka District Health Office spokesperson Mercy Nyirenda described the reports as unusual but said her office will investigate the claims further.

The hunger crisis in Malawi has been worsening due to poor harvests, economic hardships, and climate-related challenges, leaving many communities desperate for food aid.