WFP launches emergency relief operation

WFP on Tuesday launched a three month emergency operation to feed 208,500 people who have been affected by the recent floods. The agency said in a statement that in order to run the operation planned from 1 April to 30 June, it urgently needed US $3.3 million in donations from the international community to buy 8,800 mt of food. “As a result of the sudden floods that swept across much of the country in February, thousands of houses have been washed away or have collapsed,” said Adama Diop-Faye, WFP Malawi Country Director. “Thousands of families have been left homeless. Many more have lost their crops and are facing massive food shortages. Our worst fear is that we could see increased malnutrition, or even starvation.” WFP said it would provide 6,230 mt of maize, 1,090 mt of pulses, 467 mt of oil, 957 mt of blended cereal and 78 mt of salt. “Our immediate objective is to prevent the loss of life and an explosion of malnutrition among children and their parents,” said Diop-Faye. “The food will also help to stop families from selling off crucial farming tools, give them sufficient energy to plant in May for the July/August harvest and therefore recover from this crippling disaster.” “The nutritional status of women and that of their children is at serious risk. Donations are needed immediately to ensure that these mothers have enough energy to plant, harvest and support their families,” said Diop-Faye.