Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to regional solidarity by donating a second tranche of humanitarian aid to Malawi, as the country battles food insecurity caused by prolonged dry spells.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Lilongwe, Zimbabwe’s High Commissioner to Malawi, Nancy Saungweme, emphasized the importance of African nations supporting one another rather than relying solely on external assistance.

“Countries in the region face similar challenges, hence the importance of mutual solidarity in times of need,” she said.

The latest consignment comprises 370 metric tonnes of maize, part of Zimbabwe’s pledge of 1,000 tonnes to Malawi. Saungweme confirmed that a third and final consignment will follow at a later date.

High Commissioner Saungweme underscored Zimbabwe’s philosophy of Ubuntu, stressing that prosperity and resilience in the region are interconnected.

“I wish to reaffirm Zimbabwe’s shared responsibility to support and protect vulnerable communities at home and beyond our borders. Zimbabwe’s approach to international relations is rooted in the principle of Ubuntu, that our prosperity is interconnected,” she said.

She also saluted the Zimbabwean delegation for their dedication in ensuring the aid reached Malawi swiftly, describing their efforts as a testament to resilience and solidarity.

“Our historical and fraternal relations are built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared struggles. It is our duty to nurture these ties for the benefit of our people and the broader Southern African Region,” Saungweme added the Zimbabwe High Commissioner.

Receiving the aid, Dr. Justine A.K. Saidi, Chief Secretary to the Government, expressed appreciation on behalf of President Peter Mutharika and the people of Malawi.

“We greatly appreciate the heart of giving demonstrated by Zimbabwe during this difficult time in Malawi. It is a symbol of solidarity, brotherhood, and shared responsibility rooted in our common past,” Saidi said.

He noted that the donation strengthens ongoing relief efforts and ensures that vulnerable households continue to receive support.

 Malawi declared a State of Disaster in 28 districts in January 2026 after prolonged dry spells severely affected food production, and the maize donation, said Saidi, complements Malawi’s commitment to ensuring that no citizen dies of hunger during the lean season.

The donation comes as Malawi faces a projected maize deficit of 200,000 metric tonnes. While the government has received support from diplomatic missions, NGOs, and corporate donors, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) recently reported a funding shortfall of K71 billion (approximately $40.5 million) for its Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Programme.

With the lean season expected to last until March, Malawi’s government remains confident that combined efforts from regional partners, international donors, and local initiatives will bridge the food deficit.

Over four million Malawians are at risk of hunger during the 2025/2026 lean season owing to poor harvest in the last growing season due to floods and dry spells.