By Chisomo Phiri
The Malawi Government has received a $11.2 million drought insurance payout from the African Risk Capacity (ARC).
Receiving the cheque at Mzuzu State Lodge on Friday, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera highlighted that the payout underscores the power of collaboration in addressing challenges posed by climate-related disasters.
“There is a pressing need to support people and strengthen food production in the country,” said Chakwera.
The President indicated that funds from the payout will be used to enhance food security, support livelihood initiatives for Malawians, and ensure that refugees and host communities are better equipped to withstand the adverse effects of drought.
On his part, ARC Board Chairperson, Maxwell Mkwezalamba, said the payout will cushion Malawi from El Niño effects, which have affected 23 districts in the country.
“We want these funds to help Malawi build community resilience and help farmers increase food production,” he said.
Minister of Finance, Simplex Chithyola Banda, emphasized the importance of the payout, saying:”This funding will significantly aid in building community resilience and improving our response to disasters, mitigating the impact of natural events like El Niño, which have left close to 5.2 million people food insecure in the country.”
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) and the World Food Program (WFP) will be responsible for the implementation of initiatives funded by the payout.
. Receiving the cheque at Mzuzu State Lodge on Friday, President…){kind=link}