Standard Bank supports flood disaster-worst hit Nkhotakota with MK50m towards relief efforts

* More than 10,912 households have been affected in the district that recorded 12 deaths, 37 injuries and two missing persons

* As Standard Bank, we recognise that these disasters are closely linked to the growing realities of climate change

* Standard Bank is a founding signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking, aligning our operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement

By Duncan Mlanjira

In response to the aftermath of recent national flood disasters, Standard Bank Plc has injected MK50 million million towards relief efforts to an evacuation centre in Traditional Area (T/A) Kanyenda in Dwangwa area in Nkhotakota District catering for approximately 3,000 displaced people.

Standard Bank took cognizance — as according to the situation report from the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) — that Nkhotakota is the most affected district from the flood disasters that affected more than 10,912 households and recording 12 deaths, 37 injuries and two missing persons.

The support was handed over by Standard Bank Chief Executive, Phillip Madinga, who said their gesture aims to complement government’s efforts in addressing the immediate needs of the victims.  

“Today’s donation of MK50 million speaks directly to our purpose of Driving Malawi’s Growth,” he emphasised. “To us, growth is not only measured by financial outcomes or economic indicators. True growth is reflected in the strength of our communities and in how we care for one another when life turns difficult,”

Madinga emphasised that the the support reiterates Standard Bank’s long-term commitment to responding to the country’s complex disasters. Notable disasters include the call from government for Hunger Relief last year, relief from effects of Cyclones Ana, Idai and Freddy; and the CoVID-19 pandemic.

In December, the bank contributed K200 million in response to President Peter Mutharika’s declaration of disaster on hunger; and Madinga as that Standard Bank “also recognises that these disasters are closely linked to the growing realities of climate change”.

“Standard Bank is a founding signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking, aligning our operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement.

“These commitments compel us not only to respond to crises, but to actively support efforts that protect our environment and safeguard future generations. We, therefore, pledge to continue playing our part in collaborative initiatives aimed at building resilience and preventing the recurrence of such tragedies,” said the Chief Executive.

Present was Chief Secretary in the office of President & Cabinet, Justin Saidi, who applauded Standard Bank for its long history of assisting in times of disaster, saying: “Today’s donation will greatly assist in meeting the needs of victims living in camps and those outside.

“It’s pleasing to note that Standard Bank is always moving together with us on this journey. Their generous donation of MWK50 million is a true sign of solidarity,” he said. 

Standard Bank has partnered World Vision International (WVI) and DODMA in the Office of President & Cabinet for the relief response, and in his vote of thanks, WVI Director of Programmes, Charles Chimombo said “there are many families who lost all they had worked for, and their loved ones and are in dire need”.

Through the support, Standard Bank Plc reaffirms its commitment to standing with communities in times of need and working alongside Government, humanitarian partners and stakeholders to support recovery and long‑term resilience.

The Bank reiterates that it remains dedicated to driving inclusive growth, strengthening community wellbeing and contributing meaningfully to national development, particularly in the face of increasing climate‑related challenges.