Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
Herald Reporter
THE humanitarian assistance provided by President Mnangagwa to Malawi under the auspices of ZimAID is a noble gesture that demonstrates that Zimbabwe is “truly a friend indeed”, Malawian Foreign Affairs Minister George Chaponda has said.
Malawi yesterday received the first consignment of humanitarian assistance comprising maize, flour, cooking oil, blankets, cabin tents and other essential items.
The consignment was handed over by Zimbabwean Ambassador to Malawi, Dr Nancy Saungweme.
President Mnangagwa temporarily broke his annual leave last week to lead a high-level coordination of Zimbabwe’s response to domestic and sub-regional rainfall-induced disasters that have hit parts of the country, Mozambique and Malawi.
Upon receiving the consignment, Minister Chaponda said the assistance from Zimbabwe transcended diplomatic protocol and reflected the deep and enduring bond between the two countries.
“On behalf of His Excellency President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, I today received humanitarian assistance from the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe, following the declaration of a national disaster in all councils,” said Minister Chaponda.
“The support was presented by the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Malawi, Dr Nancy Saungweme, on behalf of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“I expressed my sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Zimbabwe, noting that this noble gesture truly demonstrates that Zimbabwe is a friend indeed.
“This assistance formalises an act of solidarity that transcends diplomatic protocol and reflects the deep and enduring bonds between our two nations.”
Minister Chaponda added that it was also heartening to note that Ambassador Saungweme had assured Malawi of Zimbabwe’s continued support.
ZimAID is a Government-led programme that aligns with Africa’s objective to pool resources and assist each other when natural disasters strike. It operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, working closely with the Department of Civil Protection and private sector partners.
Malawi was the first to issue a formal distress call to Zimbabwe before Mozambique, as both countries grapple with widespread flooding that has killed many, displaced communities, destroyed infrastructure and cut access to basic services.
Said Minister Chaponda: “Ambassador Dr Saungweme reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to continue supporting Malawi on its path to recovery.
“She further announced that this is the first consignment, with a second shipment expected to arrive on the advised dates.
“The assistance includes maize flour, cooking oil, blankets, cabin tents and other essential items, which will significantly contribute to easing the suffering of our people during this difficult period.”
