Oxfam Provides Vital Aid to Cyclone Freddy Survivors in Nsanje
Oxfam, the renowned humanitarian organisation, has been lauded for its prompt and substantial assistance in response to the devastating effects of tropical cyclone Freddy in Nsanje Constituency.
Nsanje, Malawi- Oxfam, the renowned humanitarian organisation, has been lauded for its prompt and substantial assistance in response to the devastating effects of tropical cyclone Freddy in Nsanje Constituency, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
Gladys Ganda, the Member of Parliament for Nsanje Lalanje, expressed her appreciation for Oxfam's financial and humanitarian aid during her visit to the affected area at Bangula Ground in the region of Senior Chief Mbenje.
The impact of Cyclone Freddy left a trail of destruction, with Nsanje Constituency being among the worst-hit areas in the district.
Hundreds of families found themselves grappling with the aftermath of the disaster, facing urgent needs for survival.
Oxfam's support has been instrumental in alleviating the suffering of the affected people.
The organisation disbursed K50,000 each to 500 families, amounting to a total of K25 million kwacha.
This financial assistance, known as a social cash transfer, is expected to provide much-needed relief, enabling families to purchase essential food supplies during this challenging period.
Furthermore, Oxfam extended its humanitarian aid beyond monetary assistance.
The organisation provided essential items such as buckets, solar lamps, bathing and washing soap tablets, and dignity kits to the affected families.
These provisions are crucial for maintaining basic hygiene and restoring a sense of dignity to those who have lost so much.
Despite Oxfam's commendable efforts, the demand for assistance remains overwhelming.
Cecilia Vinti, a beneficiary from Jambo village, expressed gratitude for the K50,000 she received, which will help sustain her family for some days.
However, she emphasised the urgent need for continued support to fully rebuild their lives.
Steveria Binzi, a school-going girl and another beneficiary, appreciated the dignity kit provided by Oxfam.
She expressed how essential these kits are, particularly during menstrual periods.
Unfortunately, she shared that she was previously excluded from receiving such items when another NGO operating in Nsanje distributed aid at Bangula Evacuation Camp.
Lingalireni Mihowa, the Country Director for Oxfam, acknowledged the challenges in providing sufficient aid to all the affected people.
While Oxfam has sourced close to $500 million for assistance, it is evident that the scale of the disaster calls for even more substantial resources.
Approximately $680 million is needed over the next five years to support the cyclone survivors effectively.
In light of the ongoing crisis, Mihowa emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between Oxfam, the government, and the international community.
Calling for increased support from the international community, Mihowa highlighted the necessity of holding hands to address the pressing needs of the cyclone-affected communities.
As the survivors in Nsanje Constituency begin the arduous task of rebuilding their lives, Oxfam's aid remains a beacon of hope.
However, sustained efforts and continued support are crucial to ensuring the long-term recovery and resilience of the affected communities.