First Lady Professor Gertrude Mutharika, through her charitable organisation, the Beautiful Malawi (BEAM) Trust, has donated food and non-food items valued at K100 million to 1,000 Malawians who recently returned from South Africa following xenophobic attacks.
Speaking during a symbolic handover ceremony held at Joyce Chitsulo Stadium in Mwanza District, BEAM Trust Chairperson Dingiswayo Jere said the First Lady was deeply concerned about the hardships and abuse the returnees endured while in South Africa.
Jere said the donation reflects the First Lady’s commitment to supporting vulnerable Malawians and helping returning citizens rebuild their lives with dignity.
Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi commended the BEAM Trust for the timely intervention, describing it as a significant contribution towards easing the challenges faced by the returnees.
Saidi revealed that more than 40,000 Malawians have so far returned safely from South Africa, with additional returnees expected in the coming days. He added that the government is working closely with relevant stakeholders to manage and regulate migration, while promoting safer and more sustainable livelihood opportunities for Malawians.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Abdullah Braidon from Machinga District expressed gratitude for the support and urged fellow Malawians considering travelling to South Africa to postpone their plans until the security situation in the country improves.
