The Malawi Government on Tuesday (30th April, 2024) launched the National El-Nino-Induced Prolonged Dry Spells and Floods Response Appeal which aims at boosting food production to ensure adequate national food stocks and provide humanitarian assistance to prevent deterioration of food insecurity and nutrition status amongst affected communities.

The launch follows President Dr Lazarus Chakwera’s declaration of state of disaster in 23 districts of the country due to effects of El-Nino.

Speaking during the launch at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe, Chakwera; who is also Minister responsible for Disaster Management Affairs, reiterated calls for foreign governments and states, donor and humanitarian partners, international and local non-governmental organisations, companies and individuals of good will to support the implementation of the response appeal, which is pegged at MK782.24 billion.

In his remarks, Chairperson of the Heads of Cooperation and European Union (EU) Ambassador to Malawi Rune Skinnebach said they will swiftly support the appeal to the best of their ability.

Currently, K25.1 billion has been mobilised through various clusters (sector working groups). A total of K12.6 billion has been pledged, leaving a resource gap of K744.4 billion.

The second round Agricultural Production Estimates Survey (APES) results project a 16 per cent decline in production as a result of El Nino-induced prolonged dry spells and floods.

APES preliminary figures further indicate that over 2 million farming families will be food insecure.