President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has called on Malawians to embrace and express the spirit of self-reliance by supporting the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) in its drive to mobilise more funds for humanitarian assistance in the country.
Dr Chakwera made the remarks at Kamuzu Palace when he inaugurated the 2024 MRCS Flag Week.
The President said 23 districts of the country are in a state of disaster because of El Nino which destroyed the country’s food crops.
He further said the impact of the El Nino added to the already acute food shortage caused by Tropical Cyclone Freddy. Currently, about 9 million people in the country need food assistance
President of MRCS Innocent Majiya said the organisation remain committed to providing humanitarian assistance during challenging times. He said MRCS will continue to enforce basic principles of humanity and preserve humanity.
This year’s flag week is being held under the theme: ‘Keeping Humanitarian Alive’. Meanwhile, Dr Chakwera has bought the first flag at K2 million. MRCS intends to raise K160 million during the flag week this year.