Malawi
Malawi was one of the last countries to announce a case of COVID-19. President Peter Mutharika has banned foreign nationals from some countries from entering Malawi and has told Malawians to social distance. However, the country remains open. In mid April, a lockdown was blocked by the High Court due to a challenge by the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC). It was said that more had to be done to help those that would be worst affected. The President is now starting an emergency cash transfer program. Additionally, Malawi’s Supreme Court upheld a ruling from last year that the general election has irregularities and a new election must occur no later than July 3.
Concerns, Challenges and Adaptation Measures
Footsteps Africa has received concerns from the locals that live in the villages they work in about them possibly bringing the coronavirus with them when they come to work on community projects. The rural communities have not yet seen health impacts due to the coronavirus, but have felt the economic strain.
Emergency Fund
Footsteps Africa has utilized the Emergency Fund donation from Rockflower to distribute corn grain to vulnerable, elderly women in their project areas. These women rely upon remittances sent by relatives. Due to the consequences of COVID-19, including loss of daily income, their relatives are no longer able to send them financial support.
