Malawi Crisis Prompts Urgent Advocacy: Sisters Unite for Collaborative Action
The crisis stems from recent cyclones, with Tropical Cyclone Freddy in March 2023 leaving 16 districts devastated, over 2 million people impacted, 679 dead, and 120,000 displaced.
LILONGWE, Malawi - In response to the on-going cyclone-induced crisis in Malawi, advocates from various religious institutes have convened in Lilongwe for a five-day Advocacy Training event organized by the All Africa Conference: Sister to Sister (AAC:SS), writes Winston Mwale.
The crisis stems from recent cyclones, with Tropical Cyclone Freddy in March 2023 leaving 16 districts devastated, over 2 million people impacted, 679 dead, and 120,000 displaced.
AAC:SS Senior Program Officer, Sister Eneless Chimbali, said the Advocacy Training is aimed to equip participants with skills to lobby for support from government sectors, donors, and well-wishers.
Sister Chimbali emphasized the urgent need for collaborative action in her compelling interview with journalists.
Sister Chimbali expressed concern over the National Disaster Risk Management Policy of 2015's slow implementation, calling for a revisit and proper allocation of funds to ministries, departments, and local councils.
She highlighted critical concerns, including the lack of food, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
On her part, Sister Agnes Jonas, chairperson of the Association of Women in Religious Institutes in Malawi (AwRIM), stressing the collective impact of voices dedicated to justice.
She underscored the need to utilize enhanced knowledge and skills for the benefit of marginalized communities affected by the disasters.
The crisis, exacerbated by slow progress in recovery, has left many displaced, living in makeshift shelters, and lacking access to basic necessities.
Sister Jonas said the All Africa Conference: Sister to Sister (AAC:SS) has been actively supporting the survivors of Cyclone Freddy through various initiatives, including the provision of relief items and psychosocial support.
However, the magnitude of the needs remains considerable, prompting the organization to prioritize equipping those involved in the relief efforts with advocacy skills.
By enhancing their ability to engage with the government and stakeholders, AAC:SS aims to address the ongoing challenges faced by those affected.
