Flood-affected households in Nkhotakota have started receiving cash assistance as part of a relief response aimed at helping communities recover from recent heavy rains that caused widespread damage.
Malawi Red Cross Society, with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, has begun distributing K90,000 per household per month for three months to 1,425 families in T/A Kalimanjira and T/A Mwansambo.
Officials say the shift from in-kind aid to cash transfers follows assessments showing that local markets remain functional, allowing beneficiaries to purchase food, rebuild shelters and meet other urgent household needs.
“We have provided unrestricted cash so that families can prioritise their most pressing needs,” said Leonard Maganga, Director of Programmes and Development at the Malawi Red Cross Society.
Authorities estimate that more than 11,000 households were affected by the floods, which struck earlier than expected, damaging homes, schools and other infrastructure.
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs says while the cash support may not meet all needs, it will significantly assist affected families in their recovery.
Officials have since urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly, noting that post-distribution assessments will be conducted to monitor how the assistance is utilised.
By Mirriam Kaliza
