MAPIRA AND MBALUKU HIT BY DEVASTATING FLOODS AS LAKE MALAWI WATER LEVEL RISES

 

Houses along lake Malawi

Severe flooding has been ongoing for a month in Mapira and Mbaluku villages in Mangochi district, caused by the overflow lake Malawi. The situation resulted in widespread damage and displacement, with residents requiring assistance as water levels continue to rise.

Some part of Mapira village

The devastating floods have submerged homes, roads and agricultural fields leaving thousands of residents in urgent need of food, clean water and shelter. The local authorities and humanitarian organization have initiated the relief efforts but the scale of disaster brought a lot of challenges. With threat of waterborne diseases increases and the risk of further flooding persisting, immediate and sustained assistance is needed to mitigate the impact on the affected communities.

Some parts of Mbaluku village

In response to this situation various organization, such as the World Food Program organization (WFP) and Chiwa Contractors Limited have been stepped in to provide assistance to affected communities. The WFP has been distributing emergency food supplies to ensure that people have to eat during this challenging time. In addition, the Chiwa Contractors Limited a local contraction company, has offered their services to help to rebuild damaged infrastructures and provide space to those who displaced by floods. Lastly the Malawi government also offering health services to ensure that there is no spread of water-born disease. By the working together the government and non-governmental organization, it can alleviate the immediate suffering and support the resilience of affected population in Mapira and Mbaluku villages in Mangochi district.

“We are grateful for the support provided by the world food programme. The emergency food they have given us during this tough time has been real lifeline “said the village head Mapira. Mr. Banda, who lives in Mbaluku village and has been directly affected by the floods, also shared thoughts. he said,” Chiwa Contractors Limited has been doing great job helping us rebuild our homes and fixing the roads they have even provide us temporary shelters. This gives us hope that we can start again. These words show how important the assistance from the organization and the government has been their combined efforts are making a real difference for the people of Mapira and Maluku villages, giving the support and hope they desperately need.

Minimizing the impact of natural disasters requires a collective efforts and proper measures. firstly, educate community members about the potential hazards and risks associated with geographical location. This include providing the information on the flooding zone, early warning system and evacuation procedures. Next, implement land use, consult with experts and local authority to develop and enforce proper land use planning regulation. This involves avoiding construction in high-risk areas such as floodplains and ensuring adequate drainage system are in place. In addition, promote afforestation and reafforestation, this can prevent soil erosion, stabilize slopes and reduce the risk of landslides. It also enhances water absorption and drainage and minimizing the impact of heavy rainfall. Lastly, implement sustainable environmental practices by encouraging practices that reduces the likelihood of natural disaster such as proper waste management, avoid deforestation preserving ecosystems and biodiversity. These can help maintain nature against disasters.

 The government of Malawi and policy makers, local communities, international organization, and business and private sectors, should work together at all levels to build resilience, mitigate the risks and ensure the safety and well being of communities facing the threat of natural disasters such as floods. For example, the Malawi government and policy makers must enact laws and enforce regulations for sustainable land use, early warning systems and emergency response protocols. In addition, allocate resources towards disaster preparedness and mitigate strategies is vital. In addition, the local community should actively participate in disaster preparedness and response efforts.

The words from the victims highlights how vital aid and support from organization like the World Food Organization and others have made a real difference in Mapira and Mbaluku villages. it’s clear that we all need to work together as government, community and organizations to build stronger and safer communities.