By Synd Kalimbuka
Lilongwe District Council has called upon well-wishers to assist schools and households affected by disaster in the district.
District Commissioner for Lilongwe District Council Dr. Lawford Palani made the appeal in an interview with Malawi24 on Monday following the damage to over 25 school blocks, teachers houses and houses caused by heavy winds which was accompanied by rainfall in some areas.
According to Palani, over 5000 learners and some teachers have been affected by the damage.
“We are appealing to our partners to support us with temporary shelters for our learners, teachers, and any other support to households affected”, said Palani.
The disaster prompted the district council to call for an emergency meeting with Malawi Members of Parliament whose areas have been affected to discuss on how the council can work with other stakeholders to assist on the problem.
During the meeting, members agreed to conduct an assessment to establish the extent of damage as the council was receiving reports from some areas on the damage.
According to the council,
extent of damage that has been established before the actual assessment is huge which needs partners to intervene because the council cannot manage on its own.
Among all schools, Likuni Boys Primary School has been greatly affected as 13 classrooms have had roofs blown off, administration block has developed cracks, fence has collapsed and two teacher houses have also been damaged.
Traditional Authorities which have been affected include Kalumba, Chadza, Kabudula, Khongoni, Malili, Chiseka, Chingala and M’bwatalika.
Meanwhile, the council has written Department of Disaster Management Affairs, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Local Government to inform on the disaster as it is waiting to meet partners to plan on the support.
The disaster comes barely two weeks before schools close for the holiday.
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