Zimbabwe dispatches humanitarian aid to Malawi

The Government of Zimbabwe has dispatched a substantial consignment of humanitarian aid to Malawi to assist thousands of families displaced by recent flash floods in the neighbouring country.

The aid was officially handed over to Malawi's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, General (Retired) Peter Namathanga, by Vice President Colonel (Retired) Dr Kembo Mohadi at the Munhumutapa offices in Harare on Wednesday.

"Our response today is guided not only by humanitarian considerations, but also by the deep historical, cultural, and social ties that bind Zimbabwe and Malawi. Our two countries share a common colonial past and a long history of people-to-people interaction," Vice President Mohadi said.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, added that the initiative underscores Zimbabwe's commitment to Pan-Africanism. "Our constitution in section 12 enshrines the spirit of Pan-Africanism. Our destiny as a nation is linked to the strength of our neighbour. In pursuance of that mandate, the President established Zim Aid as an integral instrument in the architecture of cooperation," Professor Murwira said.

Malawi's envoy expressed gratitude for the timely support, highlighting the dual challenges of climate change and economic constraints facing his country. "The humanitarian donation for the victims of floods comes at a critical time for Malawi. We grapple with impacts of climate change and economic constraints. Your support will go a long way in helping us feed our people and mitigate the effects of floods and food insecurity, which has affected all regions in our country," General (Retired) Namathanga said.

According to Malawi's Department of Disaster Management Affairs, the recent floods have affected more than 32 000 people across the country, reinforcing the urgent need for regional solidarity and timely humanitarian assistance.