Dalitso Kabambe, President of the United Transformation Movement (UTM), has urged Malawians to join forces to combat the looming hunger crisis, which is expected to affect over four million people.
Kabambe emphasized that this crisis requires a collective effort, transcending political divides, to ensure no Malawian goes to bed hungry.
Kabambe condemned the practice of hoarding food while citizens struggle to access necessities, describing it as a “moral failure.”
He advocated for the government to engage in negotiations with the private sector, rather than confrontation, to address the crisis.
Specifically, he suggested that the Reserve Bank of Malawi create a temporary liquidity window to facilitate the Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) and the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) to purchase maize in local currency.
Kabambe called upon churches, mosques, traditional leaders, and citizens to join the national mobilization effort.
He urged those with food to share with those in need and encouraged political parties, including the opposition, to take action.
“Let every church, mosque, and traditional leader become part of this national mobilization, let every citizen who has food share with one who does not, let every political party, including the opposition, act with patriotism and humanity,” Kabambe said.
“This crisis is testing the soul of our leadership,” Kabambe said, emphasizing the need for patriotism and humanity in addressing the situation.
According to the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) report, millions of Malawians are likely to face severe food shortages.
In response, Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamveka has assured that the government is committed to purchasing food for the lean season.
