President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has assured drought-stricken farmers in Karonga that his government will provide them with support until they recover from the natural disaster.

Chakwera was speaking on Friday in Mwangolera Village in the area of Traditional Authority Kilupula in Karonga district where he is visiting the farmers whose crops have been damaged by the dry spell.

During the visit, the Malawi leader expressed deep sympathy for the affected farming households.

Lazarus cHAKWERA 2 — Chakwera speaking in Karonga during his visit

“It’s sad that over 6,000 farming families have lost their crops to drought. This means the families have lost their livelihoods while the country has lost resources that would help in revenue generation,” said Chakwera.

But President Chakwera was quick to assure the affected farmers that his government will do everything possible to ensure that they do not starve.

He directed the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) to mobilize resources for supporting the farming households as a matter of urgency.

“I know DoDMA is overwhelmed with the task because of the response it is providing to cyclone survivors. But it is my expectation that the officials will ensure equal distribution of relief items so that none of the affected people feels sidelined,” he emphasized.

Speaking earlier, Paramount Chief Kyungu commended the President for visit, saying it was a comfort to the farmers.

“You have demonstrated that you are indeed Father of the Nation,” said Kyungu.