Ashraful Aid International Humanitarian Organization donated foodstuffs to Focus Secondary School in Blantyre this week and called for the spirit of giving in a time of need.
Speaking when presenting the food items, Country Director for Ashraful Aid, Abbas Panjwani, said there is a need for Malawi to embrace the Ubuntu spirit and always be willing to intervene when challenges arise.
Panjwani urged organizations to take a proactive approach to address societal issues rather than waiting to be asked.
“As stakeholders, we must not isolate ourselves from society. We must be part of the community to better identify the challenges people are facing. If we are part of them, they can easily reach out to us,” he said.
Panjwani therefore highlighted the importance of supporting the education sector, describing it as the hope of a nation.
“As a relief aid organization, we understand various challenges faced by the education sector in Malawi, including insufficient food supplies due to economic difficulties. Therefore, we respond to specific requests and needs rather than creating new ones,” he said.
Panjwani added that the initiative aligns with the organization’s mission to provide support and assistance to vulnerable individuals and communities.
The Country Director disclosed that the school approached them for food assistance following their struggle to maintain a diet.
“In response to their request, we have provided sugar, soya pieces, rice, and cooking flour to sustain their meals,” he said as he presented the food items to the girls’ section.
Panjwani reiterated Ashraful Aids commitment to uplifting communities and being a meaningful organization involved in humanitarian initiatives.
Director of Focus Secondary School, Abdul Kathumba, commended Ashraful Aid for responding to the school’s appeal during the challenging times.
Kathumba acknowledged that, like many Malawians, the school is struggling to make ends meet amid the hunger crisis.
“This donation will alleviate the problem of insufficient food for the students. Now, the learners will have adequate meals. We appeal to Ashraful Aid to continue assisting us in various areas,” he said.
Kathumba further called upon other organisations to support the school with other needs, such as learning materials, beds and mattresses.
“If there are well-wishers who can help us address these challenges, we welcome their support. Successful education requires sufficient resources,” said the school director.
Ashraful Aid International Humanitarian Organization has been providing aid to suffering communities around the world for over 27 years.
