Dalmally-based Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, of Mary’s Meals, who provide food and education to children in Malawi.
By Lizzie Healey
Deep concern has been expressed across Scotland in recent days about the devastating floods that have hit many parts of Malawi.
SNP MSP Maureen Watt told the Scottish Parliament the floods have resulted in 45 deaths and 577 injuries. There are at least two missing people, and 150,000 households or 750,000 of the population have been affected.
More than 15,000 households have been totally destroyed, as a result of which 187 camps have been established throughout the country.
Ms Watt said: “Given Scotland’s, the Scottish Parliament’s and the Scottish Government’s very close links with Malawi, what can the Scottish Government do to help the people of Malawi at this dreadful time?”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “My condolences go to all those who have been affected by the disaster in Malawi. Our thoughts are with the people of Malawi at what is an incredibly difficult time for them.
“I am pleased to tell the chamber that we have just announced the provision of £175,000 to support efforts to ensure safe water supplies in southern Malawi.
“Funding will be provided through the climate justice fund and will be delivered by our hydro nation partners, who are already working on the ground in southern Malawi to secure water resources that have been affected by the floods.
“Scottish Government officials will also work closely with partners on the ground to support the relief efforts.
“Scotland has a historic relationship with Malawi that goes back 150 years. The people of Malawi are our friends.
“We do a great deal of work in and for Malawi, from which we ourselves benefit. We stand with the people of Malawi at this difficult time, and we will do everything possible to help.”
Hundreds of people in West Dunbartonshire contribute to charities such as Mary’s Meals which provide food and education to young people in Malawi.
