Hunger-stricken households in Chiradzulu are finally seeing a glimmer of hope as a significant maize donation worth K210 million reaches the district.
The donation, totaling 190 metric tonnes or 3,888 bags of maize, was made by First Capital Bank (FCB) plc and handed over through the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA).
It will be distributed under the national food insecurity response programme to the most vulnerable households.
Speaking during the official launch of the distribution exercise on Saturday at the Chiradzulu Business Development Centre under Traditional Authority Nkalo, FCB’s Head of Legal and Company Secretary, Remmie Ng’omba, said the support aims to cushion families affected by poor crop production and the harsh effects of climatic shocks.
“Today we have made this donation because we believe that the bank exists for the people. We have strong ties with the community.
When government raised an alarm on hunger, we felt it was wise to be the first bank to contribute towards helping those who are suffering,” said Ng’omba.
He added that channeling the support through DoDMA ensures that assistance reaches the most deserving Malawians.
DoDMA Deputy Director for Disaster Response, Fyawupi Mwafongo, welcomed the contribution, noting that it would strengthen the ongoing national response to food insecurity.
“As DoDMA, we are very happy to receive this donation. Due to climatic shocks and other factors, the country experienced poor crop production during the 2024–2025 season,” said Mwafongo.
He highlighted that about four million Malawians are at risk of food insecurity, prompting the government to develop a national response plan estimated at K209 billion.
On distribution, Mwafongo explained that 3,888 bags of maize began being handed out last week.
He added that Chiradzulu will require food assistance for the next four months, December, January, February, and March with government continuing distribution alongside support from partners. Chiradzulu District Council Chairperson, Alick Naphiyo, urged beneficiaries to use the maize responsibly.
“We encourage households to prioritize this relief for consumption. It is meant to sustain families through the hunger period,” he said.
Beneficiary Titani Nyalungwe expressed gratitude for the timely support, saying many of them had nothing at home.
