By Donald Zimba
Lilongwe, November 26, Mana, The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has confirmed the arrival of relief maize at the Liwonde Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) depot.
The move is part of the 2024/25 Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Program (LS-FIRP) aimed at improving distribution efficiency and cutting costs.
Speaking during an interview, DoDMA’s Director of Disaster Preparedness, Moses Chimphepo, highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that maize supplies are closer to communities in need, particularly in the Eastern Region.
“We’ll begin with Mangochi because people in Balaka and Machinga have already started receiving distributions, Mangochi is the remaining district in the Eastern Region and by the end of this week, and trucks will begin delivering maize there.” Chimphepo explained.
Chimphepo also revealed that 1,200 metric tons of maize have been transported via rail so far, out of the 4,000 metric tons expected. The department aims to complete deliveries by December.
The decision to use rail transport has been praised for its cost-effectiveness and safety. Daniel Zanda, Warehousing and Logistics Supervisor at Liwonde ADMARC, explained that rail transport allows for faster and larger deliveries.
“For instance, one wagon carries 800 bags, or about 40 tons. Offloading 10 wagons delivers 400 metric tons at once, making it very efficient,” Zanda said.
The District Commissioner for Machinga, Rodrick Mateauma, expressed gratitude for the relief efforts.
He noted that his district has been receiving maize since October and that the additional deliveries will help expand support to underserved communities.
“This initiative has come at the right time,” Mateauma said. “The maize will help us reach those we missed in October while also supporting November’s beneficiaries.”
The ongoing maize delivery initiative highlights the government’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and ensuring timely support for vulnerable communities as the lean season progresses.
