Chiefs council in Phalombe says preparing food for funeral ceremonies and other activities is not mandatory in the district in the wake of hunger in the country.

The vice chairperson for the council, Traditional Authority Kaledzera, has said that during funeral ceremonies, only grave diggers commonly known as Adzukulu and the religious institution officiating the ceremony should be given food.

Meanwhile, social commentator Ceasor Kondowe has backed the decision, adding that the tendency burdens bereaved families.

On March 23, 2024, President Lazarus Chakwera declared Malawi a state of national disaster due to the El-Nino-induced dry spells. The declaration was made for 23 out of 28 districts in Malawi, which have been affected.