The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has challenged Malawi to develop durable solutions to avert, minimise and address disaster displacement through climate adaptation measures, preparedness and disaster risk reduction.

The UN agency, in a statement on Cyclone Freddy dated April 3, has also challenged countries that are big emitters, who are disproportionately responsible for the climate crisis, to make drastic cuts to their emissions, and scale up finance for adaptation and loss and damage.

Besides calling for an expansion in humanitarian aid, they also urge a boost in the number of development partners, businesses, and financial institutions prepared to partner with Malawi to mitigate the impact on affected communities.

“Malawi needs to develop durable solutions to avert, minimise and address disaster displacement through climate adaptation measures, preparedness and disaster risk reduction,” the UN agency’s special rapporteurs said.

People wade in the water on a submerged bridge in Mpondasi, Mangochi

While commending the Malawi Government and its people for efforts in helping those affected, the special rapporteurs hoped that affected communities can contribute their traditional knowledge and valuable perspectives in the design of programmatic responses, disaster risk reduction strategies and durable solutions.

Yesterday, President Lazarus Chakwera held a virtual meeting with Benedict Oramah, president of Afrexim Bank, to discuss Malawi’s ongoing need for international support in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by Cyclone Freddy.

In a statement released later, Oramah pledged a donation of $500 000 (about K500 million) towards the coordinated relief efforts. This support will aid relief efforts in the short-term and recovery and reconstruction in the long-term under Operation Tigwirane Manja.

“President Chakwera expressed his gratitude for the generous donation and Afrexim Bank’s act of solidarity with Malawi, along with its message of condolence to the people,” it said.

As of yesterday, the disaster claimed 676 lives and displaced over 600 000.

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