The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has begun pre-positioning relief items across the country to assist families affected by floods triggered by persistent heavy rains.

Speaking on Monday in Salima on the sidelines of a maize donation by M&B Company, DoDMA Commissioner Wilson Moleni said trucks carrying relief supplies are already en route to affected communities in several districts.

Moleni said the department is prioritising a swift response to ensure that affected families receive assistance as quickly as possible.

“We have already started pre-positioning relief items, and trucks are on the move to districts such as Salima, Chikwawa and Nsanje to reach those in need,” he said.

Commenting on the maize donation, Moleni said the contribution from M&B Company will help ease pressure on government resources, describing such support as critical in reducing the funding gap during the ongoing lean season response.

“This donation will go a long way in complementing government efforts and reducing the funding gap, which currently stands at about K59 billion, as we work to reach all affected households,” he said.

M&B Company Operations Manager Maxcity Makhuwira said the donation is part of the company’s commitment to supporting government efforts in addressing hunger and improving food security.

“The maize donation is valued at K81.5 million,” said Makhuwira.

Following the symbolic handover ceremony, DoDMA officials, in the company of council authorities, toured some of the flood-affected areas, including Nsangu in Traditional Authority Maganga, where they assessed the extent of the damage.

According to Salima District authorities, about 197 families have so far been affected by the floods.

(By Fegson Phabuli)