Malawi Completes Relief Maize Distribution to Remote Islands
The relief program is part of Malawi's broader strategy to address food insecurity, prioritizing equitable distribution to isolated regions.
LIKOMA ISLAND, Malawi— The Malawi government has concluded a maize distribution program for vulnerable households on the remote Likoma and Chizumulu Islands, providing three bags per family, writes Mercy Phiri.
The initiative, led by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, saw a total of 543 households receive the aid across two phases, completed on January 24.
"This maize is meant to support your households and ensure you are productive in your communities," said Moses Jere, the Likoma District Director of Administration and Human Resources.
"Anyone found selling this maize will face the law. Please consume it as intended."
One beneficiary, James Mfaume from Same Village, expressed deep gratitude.
"This maize will make a huge difference for my family.
Hunger has been a challenge, and this support has come at the right time. We thank the government for remembering us."
However, Village Headman Musalowa called for greater government attention to the unique needs of the remote islands, where many NGOs avoid assisting due to logistical challenges.
"We are grateful for the assistance, but I urge the government to make Likoma and Chizumulu a priority in future distributions," Musalowa said.
"These islands are hard-to-reach areas, and our lack of farmland means we rely entirely on such programs to survive."
The relief program is part of Malawi's broader strategy to address food insecurity, prioritizing equitable distribution to isolated regions.
With the final phase now complete, local leaders and beneficiaries alike have called for continued support, not just through relief aid but also through long-term solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by island communities.