Malawi has issued an appeal for international assistance as severe flooding continues to displace thousands of people and claim lives across the country, compounding an already fragile humanitarian situation.

At least 40 people have died following persistent heavy rains that have triggered widespread flooding in several districts. The floods have caused extensive damage to key infrastructure, including roads and bridges, leaving some communities cut off and hampering emergency and relief operations.

Commissioner for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, Wilson Moleni, said the number of people affected continues to rise, placing growing pressure on available resources. While acknowledging the support already extended to Malawi, Moleni warned that humanitarian needs are increasing as more families are displaced and access to basic services becomes more limited.

The disaster comes at a critical moment for the southern African country, which is already facing a severe food shortage linked to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells have disrupted agricultural production, leaving more than 4.5 million people in need of food assistance.

Authorities say the combined impact of flooding, damaged infrastructure and widespread food insecurity has stretched national response efforts, prompting renewed calls for international partners to step in and support affected communities.

–ChannelAfrica–