Leading telecommunications company Airtel Malawi plc, through the Airtel Africa Foundation, on Tuesday donated MK300 million to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs through the Ministry of Finance.
The donation comes in response to the declaration of a state of national disaster by the State President, Arthur Peter Mutharika, in all 28 districts of Malawi in October this year.
The donation, which is expected to be delivered through food relief, will be delivered in partnership with the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS).
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Airtel Malawi Managing Director Aashish Dutt said Airtel Malawi is not just a network but part of the community; therefore, they feel duty-bound to support vulnerable Malawians affected by hunger.
“This donation reflects Airtel Malawi’s belief that during moments of national hardship, standing together is the greatest strength a country can have. It underscores the company’s enduring commitment to the well-being of Malawians and its promise to show up where the need is greatest. The hunger crisis is affecting the lives of so many families and children across our country. As Airtel Malawi, we feel this pain deeply. When our nation hurts, we hurt. And when our nation needs us, we step forward,” said Dutt.
Commenting on the donation, the Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralization, Joseph Mwanamvekha expressed appreciation, saying the gesture is more than just support to the Malawi Government.
Mwanamvekha added that the donation will go a long way to alleviate the problems being faced by vulnerable people affected by hunger.
“We welcome this generous donation from Airtel Malawi at a time when many families are struggling. This assistance will directly support vulnerable communities and ensure children are not going to school on empty stomachs. As a government, we remain committed to working with the private sector to ensure urgent relief reaches all the Malawians who need it most,” he said.
The Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) report indicated that about four million people are at risk of hunger during the 2025/26 consumption period, representing 22 percent of the country’s projected population of 18.5 million.
