The African Regional Organisation of the InternationalTrade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has called for a swift provision of shelter, clean water, food and medical care to affected victims of Cyclone Freddy in Mozambique and Malawi to prevent further loss of life.
ITUC-Africa also urged the governments of Mozambique and Malawi to prioritise provision of humanitarian aid to the affected communities in their efforts to mitigate the suffering of the citizens who are gravely affected by the natural disaster.
In a press release signed by its General Secretary, Kwasi Adu-Amankwah, and made available to the journalists, the trade organisation said, “ITUC-Africa expresses grave concern about the devastating impact of Cyclone Freddy on the people of Mozambique and Malawi. The loss of lives, damage and destruction to infrastructure and properties, and destruction of crops and livestock are tragic and heartbreaking.
“Our hearts go out to all the persons, families and communities, as well as the governments of Malawi and Mozambique that have been affected by this tragic development.
“Swift and effective action is required to address the urgent humanitarian needs of those affected by the cyclone and we urge the governments of Mozambique and Malawi to prioritise the provision of emergency aid and support to affected communities.
“Access to safe shelter, clean water, food and medical care must be provided without delay to prevent further loss of life and minimise the suffering of those affected by this disaster.”
We hope that coordinated efforts by the governments of Mozambique and Malawi in close partnership with international humanitarian organisations, aid agencies, and other stakeholders will assure the mobilisation of the needed resources and expertise to support the emergency response to support the affected communities to receive the assistance they need.”
The trade organisation added, “We further exhort both governments to take a long term approach to addressing the root causes of such natural disasters. The increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones and other extreme weather events are a clear indication of the urgent need for action on climate change. These developments are reminders of the need and urgency to build climate change adaptability and mitigation stamina.
“We appreciate the efforts and support of various rescue and support organisations that have been lending a hand to the affected people and communities and call on all who can to assist Mozambique and Malawi to address the humanitarian crises that the flooding has thrown up. This is a critical moment to act, and we must seize it to build a better future for all.
