Chakwera inaugurates Malawi Red Cross Society Flag Week, urges Malawians to embrace the spirit of self reliance

By Cedric Nkungula

President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera on Thursday 5th October 2023 inaugurated this year’s Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) Flag Week at a function that took place at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe.

Red Cross Flag Week is commemorated worldwide on May 8 each year to celebrate the uniqueness and unity of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

However, Malawi did not celebrate the day in May, as the country was at the peak of disaster brought by Tropical Cyclone Freddy.

During this week, MRCS intends to raise K116 million for disaster response preparedness.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Chakwera urged Malawians to embrace the spirit of self – reliance as enshrined in the Malawi 2063 blueprint in order to attain developmental progress the country needs.

He said for Malawi to attain an inclusive wealthy nation status, there is need for concerted efforts by all stakeholders.

“Malawi is in transition and, as such, we need to take necessary steps that would ensure that we graduate from a low income country. We must work together to achieve that status and also help people who are in need,” Chakwera said.

The President then made a donation of K2 million towards the flag week.

MRCS President Innocent Majiya said it is important that Malawians should join hands by donating towards the flag week in order to reach out to as many Malawians as possible, who are in need of help.

“We are grateful to government for the unwavering support whenever we need it. It is important that we work together towards the common good for all Malawians,” said Majiya.

Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda described MRCS as a key strategic partner to the government.