By Suleman Chitera
As Muslims in Malawi join millions worldwide in observing the holy month of Ramadan, the Faizan Global Relief Foundation (FGRF) has rolled out a large-scale food distribution exercise targeting 100,000 vulnerable families across the country.
FGRF Director of Public Relations and Projects, Ibrahim Omar Mataya, said the initiative is designed to cushion struggling households during the fasting period.
Mataya explained that each beneficiary household is receiving a food package comprising 10 kilogrammes of maize flour, salt, cooking oil, sugar, soya pieces, and rice — essentials meant to help families prepare meals for Iftar, the evening meal taken to break the fast.
“We understand that many families are facing economic hardships. Ramadan is a sacred month that emphasises charity, compassion, and sharing. This initiative is specifically meant to support Muslims during fasting by easing the burden of providing meals when they break their fast,” said Mataya.
According to Mataya, the organisation has already reached 5,500 households in Chikunda, Chiswe, and Fatima areas in Nsanje District, with distribution exercises continuing in other regions. He added that FGRF’s humanitarian efforts are not limited to Ramadan, noting that in recent months the organisation has also extended large-scale assistance to the broader community regardless of religious affiliation.
One of the beneficiaries, Estelle Kambalame, an elderly woman from the area, described the donation as a lifeline.
“This support has come at the right time. Many of us did not know how we would manage during this fasting period,” she said.
Member of Parliament for Nsanje North, Francis Folley, also commended FGRF for the intervention, saying it will significantly ease hunger among vulnerable households in the district.
The Ramadan relief programme underscores the growing role of faith-based organisations in complementing government efforts to address food insecurity, particularly in districts frequently affected by floods and economic shocks.
As distribution continues, thousands more families are expected to benefit from the initiative, bringing relief and hope during one of the most spiritually significant months in the Islamic calendar.
