Chakwera tips government on food shortage, tobacco

Leader of opposition in Parliament Lazarus Chakwera says there is need for government to take decisive steps to resolve food shortages emanating from effects of climate change and problems on the tobacco market.

Briefing journalists in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Chakwera, who is also president of Malawi Congress Party (MCP), said weather related disasters have become the norm because they happen every year; hence, government should be able to prepare for such occurrences rather than waiting for well- wishers to bail out victims.

His remarks come against a background of events unfolding in the Northern Region where persistent rains have resulted in floods and destruction of property and death of some people. He condoled the bereaved families.

On tobacco, he said he is saddened that the market has started by offering farmers a raw deal.

President Peter Mutharika last week declared a State of National Disaster in the wake of dry spells that have mostly affected Central and Southern regions, reducing harvest. He appealed for assistance from local and international well-wishers. n