On Friday, Malawian President Peter Mutharika declared a state of emergency in the areas hit hardest. The number of people killed and the damage caused to homes and properties in Malawi following the recent floods is expected to rise, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

In a statement, UN Secretary-General António Guterres extended his condolences to the Malawi government and families of flood victims across the country after reports that the flooding had affected approximately 115,000 people, particularly in the south of the country, and killed at least 23 over the last few days.

Guterres added that he was deeply saddened by the loss of life as UN assessment teams try to reach those affected in new areas with more than 80% of the country’s hydro-electricity capacity down, seriously impacting the power supply.

The Malawi government said it needs 16.4 million U.S. dollars to deal with the damage caused by the floods. DoDMA Principal Secretary Wilson Mollen appealed to local and international organizations to assist the Malawi government in any way they can for the displaced households to get shelters, food and all other needs.

Since Malawi President Arthur Peter Mutharika declared a state of disaster in 14 districts Friday, local and international organizations have been providing support to help the country contain the situation. The government of South Africa was the first to respond by sending rescue teams and equipment. The displaced people are temporarily dwelling in schools and other evacuation camps.

Mutharika and government officials have visited the shelters to assess the situation and cheer the victims up.

Looking for a new job?

Are you thinking of testing the waters or a change of career, we are here for you with all the latest job listing from all over South Africa. Now is the time to get that amazing dream job and we have you covered – SEE MORE