MP Urges Government to Expedite Infrastructure Development for Relocated Islanders in Nsanje
Nsanje North MP calls on government to accelerate infrastructure provision in Makhanga relocation areas.
NSANJE, Malawi - Enock Chizuzu, the Member of Parliament for Nsanje North, has called on the government to accelerate the provision of infrastructure in the areas where the Islanders of Makhanga have agreed to be relocated from flood-prone areas in Nsanje, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
In an interview with AfricaBrief on Monday, Chizuzu expressed his satisfaction that the affected communities on the island have recognised the importance of relocating to higher ground.
He emphasised the urgency for the government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to swiftly provide social services in close proximity to ensure that people have access to their basic needs.
"People will miss their primary and secondary schools, market, health centre, and Extension Planning Area (EPA), just to name a few," he stated.
The parliamentarian commended the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) for providing cash assistance to support the flood survivors as they embark on the relocation process.
One of the victims, Eneless Sandram from Chigwamafumu in the area of Senior Chief Mlolo in Nsanje, expressed the need for the community to move away from the dangerous area.
Sandram acknowledged that their survival during the submergence of the Makhanga Island area was by the grace of God. She highlighted that tropical cyclone Freddy had significantly exacerbated their hardships.
"The money received by each survivor will aid us in the process of relocating to safer areas," she added.
As the relocation progresses, it is imperative that the government and relevant organisations continue to provide the necessary support and infrastructure to ensure the well-being and stability of the affected islanders.