By Aisha Chiwaya

Salima, April 11, Mana: Salima District's Principal Nutrition, HIV and AIDS Officer, Yamikani Makondi, says there has been a rise in child malnutrition cases, mainly due to prolonged dry spells and African armyworm infestations that have left many families food insecure.

Makondi made the remarks on Thursday during the launch of a campaign to distribute Corn Soya Blend as part of World Vision's global ‘Enough’ campaign, which aims to end child hunger in the area of Senior Chief Kalonga.

“Salima experiences recurring shocks. While we have seen progress at times, the current dry spell is expected to cause another rise in malnutrition,” Makondi said.

Makondi welcomed the support, calling it timely and aligned with government efforts to invest in child development.

“This support will strengthen our policies and strategies, allowing children to reach their full potential and thrive in school,” he said.

World Vision’s Dedza-Salima District Programmes Manager Chikumbutso Kamwendo said the initiative aims to reach 2,147 children across 49 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in Salima, adding the project is valued at K28 million.

“Our research identified the area of Senior Chief Kalonga, particularly the Mapiko and Mkhukhi villages, as among the hardest hit by hunger during the last rainy season,” Kamwendo added.

Senior Chief Mkhukhi pledged to ensure the aid reaches the intended beneficiaries.

However, he also pointed out caregiver negligence as a contributing factor to malnutrition.

“The porridge motivates children to attend school, but a lack of understanding among some caregivers affects progress. Those who follow instructions see improvements in their children’s health,” Mkhukhi noted.