Belgian Red Cross-Flanders Donates 100,000 euros for humanitarian aid after storm Freddy
Belgian Red Cross-Flanders releases 100,000 euros from the emergency relief fund for humanitarian support following storm Freddy in Southeast Africa. Indeed, after three weeks of severe weather, the situation on the ground is worrying: there are already nearly 600 dead, some 400,000 displaced people and enormous material damage. In addition, about 100,000 hectares of farmland have been affected, threatening food shortages. Those wishing to help can donate online via our website or make a contribution via account number BE53 0000 0000 5353, stating "storm Freddy."
Emergency weather on top of cholera outbreak
The effects of storm Freddy are greatest in Malawi - where the president has already declared a state of emergency in the 10 most affected districts - but Mozambique is also experiencing extensive human and material damage. In an earlier phase, storm Freddy also hit Madagascar.
Moreover, the situation in Malawi and Mozambique is extra precarious because this crisis comes on top of two other crises: there were already heavy floods in southern Mozambique at the beginning of February, and there is a major cholera outbreak, mainly affecting Malawi. This new heavy rainfall from storm Freddy, resulting in new flooding, ensures that the cholera outbreak will continue to spread.
"So obviously there is a great need for humanitarian aid. That is why we are now deploying 100,000 euros from the emergency relief fund to support the victims. Initially we are focusing this financial support on Malawi, because that is where the need is highest. With this 100,000 euros, we will focus on shelter and things to combat the cholera outbreak. Think for example of tents and tarpaulins for the displaced or hygienic products - such as chlorine tablets for water purification and soap - to prevent cholera infections." Sofie De Jaeger, Manager International Cooperation - Belgian Red Cross-Flanders
Local support
Belgian Red Cross-Flanders has permanent staff in Mozambique, working with the local Red Cross there to coordinate emergency relief . In addition, two other experienced Belgian Red Cross-Flanders staff will leave for Malawi to help support humanitarian aid there as well.
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