Save the Children Malawi Recognized with Government Award for Outstanding Cyclone Response in Blantyre and Zomba Districts

Malawi, 14th December 2023 – In a magnificent ceremony at the Statehouse commemorating INGO Day, Save the Children International (SCI) was honored by the Malawian government for its exceptional response to Tropical Cyclone Freddy in Blantyre and Zomba districts earlier this year.

Tropical Cyclone Freddy, which unleashed torrential rains from 11th to 15th March 2023, wreaked havoc across 15 districts, compounding the devastation caused by previous disasters, including floods induced by Tropical Storm Ana in 2022 and Cyclone Idai in 2019. The catastrophe affected over 2.2 million people, including 1.3m children, displacing 659,278 individuals and resulting in 679 fatalities, 2,178 injuries, and 537 missing persons.

Save the Children's unwavering commitment and comprehensive support to cyclone victims in Zomba and Blantyre were recognized with the prestigious award. Save the Children’s investment of $1.3 million targeted aid to 513,640 individuals, delivering multipurpose cash transfers to 1,495 households, facilitating access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for 2,000 households, and supporting 116 outreach clinics that reached 15,996 people. Additionally, they procured and distributed learning and sporting materials to 24,452 learners and facilitated the fumigation of 22 schools to ensure safe learning environments.

The award ceremony, graced by the Malawian Head of State, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, marked a significant milestone for Save the Children as it celebrates 40 years of impactful service in Malawi. Country Director Ashebir Debebe accepted the award, expressing gratitude for the recognition, stating, "This accolade is a proof of our unwavering commitment to the well-being of children and communities affected by disasters."

In an earlier NGO Day event, Save the Children, showcased its four-decade journey at a pavilion, offering a glimpse into their extensive humanitarian work. The event was also attended by the Head of State, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping a better future for Malawi.

Save the Children’s partner, YODEP, was also honored for its outstanding cyclone response in Zomba, underscoring commitment to empowering local entities. Through its pilot localization project, Save the Children has equipped YODEP with robust systems and capacities, enabling effective fundraising and response strategies during cyclones.

The recognition by the Malawian government highlights Save the Children unwavering dedication and commitment to humanitarian assistance, empowering communities, and fostering resilience in the face of natural disasters.