President Peter Mutharika of Malawi has officially declared a national disaster in eleven districts suffering from extreme food shortages.
The move comes after continued dry spells left millions vulnerable.
Chief Secretary Justin Saidi confirmed the declaration, explaining the president was deeply troubled by the crisis and had “noted with grave concern the impacts of food insecurity.”
A new report from MVAC shows nearly 4 million Malawians could face serious food shortages through early next year.
Saidi urged quick support: “Let’s therefore help the affected communities as soon as possible,” adding that the president is calling on both local and international partners to step in.
The affected districts are spread across all four of Malawi’s regions. This crisis is the latest in a series of food struggles driven by El Niño-related weather disruptions over the past five years.
