Canada providing emergency assistance to Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe

March 23, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

When vulnerable populations are faced with deadly humanitarian disasters, Canadians stand ready to assist them.

The Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister of International Development and Minister for Women and Gender Equality, today announced that Canada will provide initial funding of up to $3.5 million in emergency assistance to support humanitarian organizations responding to the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Idai in Southern Africa. Canada has also made a donation of humanitarian relief stocks, including tarpaulins, shelter kits, mosquito nets and blankets, to help respond to the immediate needs of the people affected by the cyclone.

The cyclone, which hit Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe on March 15, 2019, has caused significant devastation to communities, destroying homes and infrastructure. Many communities remain cut off by flooding, without communications or electricity. Across the region, hundreds of people have been killed and many more remain missing.

Canada’s assistance will be provided through experienced United Nations, Red Cross and non-governmental organization partners and will focus on meeting the immediate food, shelter, water, sanitation, health and protection needs of households displaced by flooding or otherwise impacted by the storm.