10 April 2006

Malawi: Lack of rain in Kasungu

Farmers are starting to collect their harvest in the southern part of Malawi. However, the nutritional situation among vulnerable people continues to deteriorate. Recent data collected by Action Against Hunger show a 5% increase in acute malnutrition compared to last year and corn prices have risen to very high levels.

In Kasungu, rain has been sporadic during the last months. In this region, Action Against Hunger is supporting communities affected by one of the worst food crises in recent years. “Lack of rain has severely damaged corn and tobacco harvests on which poor communities depend as a source of food and income. Temporary work during harvest time is crucial for the rural population,” says Marta Valdes, Action Against Hunger-Spain’s food security advisor.

The food stress index, a surveillance system established by Action Against Hunger to anticipate and mitigate food crisis, has reached alarming levels. Families have exhausted their grain reserves, they do not have income from agriculture and diets worsen. 

Action Against Hunger continues to support feeding centres to treat children under five years old suffering from severe malnutrition. The organisation also implements food security programmes to help strengthen communities’ coping mechanisms for the long-term. “Programmes currently include support of drought-resistant crops, the construction of irrigation systems, distribution of seeds and training,” says Valdes.

It is also necessary to focus on crops suitable for the rainy season, to facilitate access to fertilisers and to use adequate techniques to improve the quality of the ground, which is extremely damaged.

***ENDS***

DONATE ONLINE: Our Action Against Hunger starts with you. To help people in their struggle to feed themselves and their families, your support makes a difference. Click here...