Government has distributed relief food items to households affected by strong winds and heavy rains that hit Karonga District on December 26, 2025, leaving thousands of people vulnerable.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango made the donation on Saturday at Iponga Primary School Ground in the area of Senior Chief Mwakaboko. He said the intervention demonstrates Government’s commitment to ensuring that no Malawian is left behind during times of disaster.
“The President heard about the disaster that affected Karonga and directed that immediate support be provided to the affected families. This food assistance is a sign of Government’s solidarity with the people of Karonga as they recover,” said Mhango.
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Mhango said the disaster affected 1,112 households in the areas of Paramount Chief Kyungu, Senior Chief Kilupula and Traditional Authority Mwakaboko. He said the damage resulted in loss of life, injuries and destruction of houses, schools and a health facility.
He added that Government, through the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, has been providing relief in phases, with the remaining affected households receiving assistance during the function.
“Beneficiaries should not sell the relief food because the assistance is strictly meant for consumption by affected households. I also ask development partners to complement Government efforts in both emergency response and long-term resilience building,” he said.
Karonga District Commissioner Willard Mwambo commended Government for the timely response, saying the relief will ease immediate food challenges faced by affected families.
“The presence of the Honourable Minister and the support from Government have brought hope to our people. As a district, we ensured transparency and fairness in identifying beneficiaries, and we remain committed to strengthening disaster preparedness,” said Mwambo.
Senior Chief Mwakaboko thanked Government for the intervention, describing the assistance as timely and lifesaving for his subjects.
“Many families were left without food and shelter after the disaster. This support shows that Government cares for its people, and we are truly grateful,” said Mwakaboko.