Flood-affected families across Malawi could soon find relief from worsening food shortages following a K50 million maize flour donation that is set to be distributed to vulnerable households through a humanitarian response programme.
FDH Bank plc made the donation on Monday, handing over the maize flour to the First Lady of Malawi and Beautify Malawi Trust (BEAM) Matron, Gertrude Mutharika, during a ceremony held at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe.
The consignment comprises 2,820 bags of maize flour, including 1,420 bags of five kilogrammes each and 1,400 bags of 10 kilogrammes each. The maize flour will be distributed to flood-affected households through BEAM’s humanitarian response programme, with beneficiaries yet to receive the assistance.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, FDH Bank Managing Director Noel Mkulichi said the bank was moved to act following the First Lady’s call for support to assist Malawians who have been severely affected by the floods.
“The heavy and persistent rains have caused widespread destruction, leaving many families without homes and food. As a responsible corporate citizen, FDH felt compelled to come forward and contribute towards easing the suffering of the affected communities,” said Mkulichi.
He said the bank views its role as extending beyond financial services to national development and the welfare of Malawians.
“We believe that our responsibility goes far beyond banking. We are partners in national development and the wellbeing of our people. When communities suffer, we all feel the impact, and when they recover, the whole nation becomes stronger,” he said.
In her remarks, Mutharika commended the donation, describing it as timely support for families who continue to struggle in the aftermath of the floods.
“This contribution will make a real difference to families who are struggling to put food on the table after losing so much to the floods,” she said.
Mutharika added that BEAM is mobilising resources and finalising logistics to ensure the maize flour reaches affected communities as quickly as possible.
“Our goal is to ensure that no family is left without support in this period of hardship. With partners like this, we are able to extend help to more people and restore a sense of dignity to those in need,” she said.
The donation comes as many flood-affected households across the country remain dependent on humanitarian assistance, with food security continuing to be one of the most urgent needs as communities work towards recovery.
