Chakwera declares state of disaster in the country

President Lazarus Chakwera has officially declared a State of National Disaster in 23 districts across Malawi, profoundly affected by the adverse impacts of El-Nino weather conditions.

These districts have been grappling with irregular rainfall, flooding, and prolonged rainy seasons, consequently leading to a significant downturn in agricultural output.

Over 2 million farming households have borne the brunt of these harsh weather conditions, facing severe challenges in sustaining their livelihoods.

Speaking during the nation address on Saturday 23rd March 2024 in Lilongwe Chakwera reiterated that the affected districts have been grappling with erratic weather patterns, inundations, and extended dry spells, culminating in a sharp decline in agricultural productivity.

He underscored the profound impact of climate change, manifesting in unpredictable rainfall patterns, destructive floods, and prolonged droughts.

Chakwera revealed that a staggering 749,113 hectares of crop production have been adversely affected, constituting 44.3% of the national agricultural area.