ElectricAid responds to Cyclone Idai

Just over one week ago, Cyclone Idai swept through southern African countries of Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Strong winds and flooding have taken approximately 700 lives and destroyed roads, houses, schools and health facilities.

Farmer, Charles Yohane (47) with two of his children Felix (15) and Cecilia (18). They survive by the land so this flood was a big blow to them. Not only did they lose their crops but their house collapsed and all their possessions were washed away. They are now taking refuge in their brother and grandmother’s house which are close by.

Damage to local housing following Cycle Idai – Malawi, March 2019 Photo: Concern Worldwide

An estimated 2.6 million people have been affected with many areas completely isolated and only accessible by helicopter. With limited access to clean water, cholera and malaria cases have been reported and are estimated to increase along with other waterborne diseases.

In response to the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Idai, ElectricAid has donated €30,000 in emergency funding to Concern Worldwide, GOAL, Oxfam and CBM (Christian Blind Mission) This donation will fund family kits, emergency food baskets and shelter.

We are likely to see further requests for support as the situation becomes clearer and relief agencies move from emergency operations to reconstruction efforts.

Commenting on the disaster, Concern’s Country Director in Malawi, Yousaf Jogezai

“People here are desperate, they have lost everything they have and it is very, very difficult for them to survive, they have had just so many shocks, with last year’s drought, flooding last January and now this latest flood, they have lost everything. In many cases their

houses have been washed away or they have collapsed, their livestock is gone and this year’s harvest had been destroyed.”

Paul (35) and Grace (29) with their two sons Mercy (4) and Manda (3). They are standing by their destroyed house. Paul farms maize which was completely destroyed by the floods. Even the land is unusable because of the sheer about of sand that is now covering it.

Communities gather following Cyclone Idai – Malawi, March 2019 Photo: Concern Worldwide

ElectricAid can only respond to these crises through the generous support of you, our members along with ESB & EirGrid. If you would like to support ElectricAid either as a regular donor or to make a once off donation, please click on the link below.

https://electricaid.ie/join-electricaid-esb-payroll/