We have you covered, VP tells flood victims.

Vice-President Saulos Claus Chilima has told flood victims in Salima not to despair as government has in place all the relevant interventions to alleviate their challenges.

Chilima, who is also Disaster Management Affiars Minister, made the remarks on Thursday in Salima where he went to cheer up flood victims after Lifidzi river banks burst open following heavy rains on Friday last week. The flooding has since affected 248 households, translating to about 1030 people in TA Pemba’s area in the district.

“I’m here to give you the assurance from the [State] President himself that government won’t let you down. Be rest assured that relief aid will continue to pour in. We have you covered for now, and in the near future.”

His remarks followed member of Parliament for the area, Cassim Liguluwe’s plea for government to consider providing his constituents with some farm inputs to replant once the waters settle.

Chilima seized the chance to warn his officials at both national and council levels not to abuse relief items meant for the flood victims, “as has been reported from elsewhere”.

“I don’t think I have to overemphasize how evil this malpractice can be. But what I know is that the law is going to catch up with you on this one” He said.

The Vice-President, who led the distribution of assorted relief items to those affected at Kandulu

Evacuation Centre, also advised the community to learn from such disasters so that they should not be affected by same problems every year.

Meanwhile, Malawi Defence Force soldiers have since camped at the centre to help provide security and related relief services.