National Bank of Malawi has underscored the need for the private sector to partner with the government in times of disaster.
Chief Risk Officer for the bank, Charles Ulaya, said when disasters occur, the government becomes overwhelmed, making it difficult to assist affected individuals on its own.
Ulaya made the remarks on Friday at Mkaika Primary School ground, where the bank donated assorted items to people affected by floods in the area of Senior Chief Nkhanga in Nkhotakota District.
“We believe that when a disaster occurs, we should assist as part of our corporate social responsibility, which is one of our core values as a bank. We saw how the floods affected the district to the extent that our Dwangwa Branch was impacted and remained non-operational for two days, and we felt compelled to assist the affected families,” said Ulaya.
He added that the assistance aims to lessen the hardship and ensure that affected communities have access to essential supplies. The donated items include soap, blankets, cooking oil, soya pieces, and maize flour.
Ulaya further emphasized the need for the nation to step up efforts in afforestation, noting that the loss of vegetation in many areas is contributing to uncontrolled heavy rains.
Commenting on the development, Nkhotakota District Chief Education Officer, Alfred Chidiwa, who represented the District Commissioner, commended the bank for the gesture, saying the extent of the damage requires support from partners.
Chidiwa also noted that the council is in the process of engaging various partners to address the needs of affected families, many of whom are seeking irrigation equipment to enhance food security.
However, he expressed concern over individuals who continue to remain in flood-prone areas despite the council’s willingness to relocate them to safer places.
Senior Chief Nkhanga also hailed the assistance, saying nearly 700 people were affected, with some losing all their property.
Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries from Chikophwete Village, Benjamin Goliati, said the donated items will help support his family, which is still living in a displacement camp.
The bank donated items worth K100 million..
