TANZANIA LENDS A HELPING HAND TOWARDS TROPICAL CYCLONE FREDDY RESPONSE INTERVENTIONS

The United Republic of Tanzania has also responded to President Lazarus Chakwera’s call for international assistance following devastating effects of Tropical Cyclone Freddy (TCF) that has displaced over 300,000 people households and killed 447 people.

Two helicopters landed in the country on Saturday evening, 18th March, through Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) carrying a search and rescue operation team, with relief items.

Speaking at KIA, Tanzanian High Commissioner to Malawi, Humphrey Hesron Polepoole said good neighborhood is demonstrated in times of trouble and as a country they have decided to offer their good will, responding to President Chakwera’s call.

“As africans and good neighbors; we need to lend a helping hand. When one is in trouble, we share the trouble,” said Polepole.

He said the donation has been made in line with cordial relationship between the two countries; with hope that the relief assistance will make a difference.

1,000 metric tonnes of maize are on their way and includes tents, blankets and mattresses.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the p
President, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda thanked the president of Tanzania for the timely support to the government of Malawi, describing it as a token of brotherhood.

Chiponda said the relief assistance has come at the right time and that the gesture is a good sign of the good relationship that exists between the two countries.

“Let me also thank the men and women in uniform; both the Police and the Malawi Defence Force for the dedication they have put towards supporting people affected by Freddy. They have left their families and risked their lives for fellow Malawians and I say this has to be commended,” said Chiponda.

Currently, search and rescue operations have been intensified now that the water levels have subsided and that include the use of sniffer dogs.