In a collaborative effort, NBS Bank and the World Food Programme (WFP) have commenced the distribution of funds through social cash transfers to support over 2000 individuals affected by Cyclone Freddy at Nkhulambe Centre 1 and 2 in Phalombe, Malawi.
Tamanda Ng’ombe, Head of Marketing & Customer Experience at NBS Bank, emphasized the institution’s commitment to ensuring the proper disbursement of funds. Ng’ombe highlighted the collaborative role with local partners, specifically Circle for Integrated Community Development (CICOD), responsible for beneficiary identification and information verification.
Expressing satisfaction with the distribution process, Ng’ombe commended the efforts of WFP, CICOD, the District Commissioner, and the Department of Disaster Management (DODMA) in ensuring seamless operations on the ground.
Paul Turnbull, the WFP country Representative, highlighted that the lean season response targets individuals experiencing food insecurity, particularly those affected by Cyclone Freddy. He emphasized the program’s temporary nature and its focus on addressing immediate food shortages.
Senior Group Nkhulambe underscored the severe impact of Cyclone Freddy on the area, noting the loss of lives and the challenges faced by the affected villages. Acknowledging the support received, he emphasized the urgent need for food in the region.
As beneficiaries gathered to receive assistance, 70-year-old Thelma Selemani shared her ordeal of losing her maize and cassava gardens during the cyclone. She expressed gratitude for the cash transfers, which would enable her to purchase much-needed food.
Charles Kalemba, Commissioner for DODMA, echoed concerns about the ongoing need for sustained support in the Nkhulambe area. He emphasized that the region’s land had been significantly impacted, hampering agricultural productivity and necessitating continued assistance to ensure food security.
Kalemba outlined the phased approach of the support, including cash transfers and provisions and underscored the need for ongoing assistance in the coming months.
The joint efforts of NBS Bank and WFP, in collaboration with local authorities, reflect a coordinated response to alleviate the plight of Cyclone Freddy victims, providing critical support to the affected communities in Phalombe, Malawi.
