Malawi Minister Promises New School After Cyclone Freddy Destruction
Cyclone Freddy, which hit Malawi in March 2023, caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools, in the southern part of the country.
NSANJE, Malawi — Education Minister Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima assured students at Mpatsa Primary School on Wednesday that the government will construct a new school to replace the one devastated by tropical cyclone Freddy, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
During a surprise visit to the institution in Senior Chief Tengani's area of Nsanje district, Wirima said preparations for the new school are in advanced stages.
"Plans are almost done and what is remaining is to the area to kickoff the building works so that learners will have an access to a good infrastructure," Wirima said.
Senior Chief Tengani expressed satisfaction with the minister's visit to both the old site, now covered in sand, and the new location.
He dismissed claims of disputes over the new site, stating, "Land is already allocated for the next Mpatsa Primary School in my jurisdiction."
Headteacher Jussab Mintrozo said the minister witnessed teaching and learning in Standard 5, entering a tent serving as a temporary classroom.
The visit highlights the government's efforts to address the educational challenges posed by natural disasters in the region.
Cyclone Freddy, which hit Malawi in March 2023, caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools, in the southern part of the country.
The promise of a new school offers hope to students and teachers who have been struggling with makeshift facilities since the cyclone's destruction.