President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera says his administration will offer needed support to flood victims in Karonga both in short and long term.
Over 4000 residents in the district were affected by the floods that came as a result of North Rukuru river breaking its banks on February 24 this year.
Besides the obvious intervention of distributing food and other relief items, the President promised communities that his administration will construct a dyke to prevent similar occurrences in future. Few years ago another dyke was constructed but was not effective this time around because the river burst on a different stretch.
The Malawi leader announced this good news when he visited the flood victims sheltered at Kambwe Camp in the district.
As a way of expressing seriousness on his promise, President Chakwera added that he will liaise with the relevant Ministries and the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to do the build a dyke.
“This is the only remedy to keep this area safe from floods,” emphasized Chakwera.
Having noted that there are several organizations and individuals on the ground providing relief support to flood victims, the state president took advantage of the tour to convey thanks to such well-wishers that are providing relief items to flood victims.
While at the camp, President Chakwera supported flood victims with assorted items including kitchen utensils, maize and maize flour.
In his remarks, the deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Hon Owen Chomanika, assured the victims of government commitment to providing them with the support they need.
However, Chomanika advised relief distribution officer to ensure that they discharge their duties with the required integrity.
“Government will do everything possible to see to it that you are all assisted,” Chomanika said.
In his speech, Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga and Chitipa also warned chiefs against personalizing relief items saying the law will soon catch up with them.
These floods also affected over 650 hectares of farm land.