Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) has launched a K550 million relief initiative to support communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Jude, which made landfall in southern Malawi on 11 March 2025.
The initiative, funded by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent and the Danish Red Cross, aims to provide assistance to over 4,895 households in Mulanje, Phalombe and Chikwawa districts.
Speaking during the launch of the initiative at Mitondo Primary School in Chikwawa, Patrick Duncan Phiri, Head of Disaster Management at the MRCS, said that each household will receive K140,000, split into two payments, as well as laundry and bathing soap.
“Apart from distributing cash assistance and soap, we are also disseminating awareness messages on hygiene and malnutrition,” added Phiri.
Jossen Tembo, Director of Planning and Development for Chikwawa District Council, expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “We are very happy that the Malawi Red Cross Society has come here to support the people of Chikwawa. This will give relief to the people while they are waiting for their houses to be rehabilitated.”
One of the beneficiaries, 85-year-old Margaret Collins, whose house was washed away by Cyclone Jude, was grateful for the help.
The initiative also includes malnutrition screenings for children under five and hygiene promotion messages, with the goal of providing assistance to affected communities and helping them recover from the impact of the cyclone.
The relief aid is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by the cyclone, helping them to recover and rebuild their communities.
By Mercy Zamawa
