International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has applauded Malawi for its effective handling of disasters and putting in efforts to engage youths in disaster preparedness and recovery.
IFRC National Society Development Coordinator, Shareen Francis, made the applause during the handover of a youth resource centre in Mchinji District on Saturday.
Francis commended the country’s resilience in responding to back-to-back disasters like Cyclone Freddy and cholera outbreaks.
“This facility underscores our commitment to disaster preparedness by empowering youth hence empowering the future of Malawi. Investing in them is planting seeds for a resilient tomorrow,” he said.
According to Mchinji District Commissioner Lucia Chidalengwa the youth centre, designed to train young people in disaster response and management, aligns with Vision 2063’s emphasis on youth empowerment.
Chidalengwa also urged other stakeholders to join hands with the government to ensure thorough disaster preparedness.
The Youth Resource Center has been constructed with funds amounting to K80 million from the IFRC Capacity Building Fund and will offer the district with youth driven and proactive approaches to disaster preparedness and recovery.
By Yamikani Makanga
