The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) released a new study detailing the impact of Malawi's Climate-Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme on household resilience against extreme weather, according to a March 13 report. Funded by the World Bank, the initiative generated durable, community-maintained land and forest assets that enhance local capacity to cope with droughts and floods. Researchers noted that aligning asset creation with environmental objectives provides significant, long-term benefits for vulnerable communities.
Habitat for Humanity Malawi reported the construction of 54 permanent homes in Namchidwa village in Mulanje District for families displaced by past cyclones. According to a March 13 statement from the organisation, the recovery project was initially funded by the Gale family and scaled up with support from Habitat Great Britain volunteers. The initiative also provided vocational training to 17 local youth and delivered shelter safety sessions to over 1,000 community members to improve climate preparedness.
Update: Following earlier safety advisories, the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) issued a fresh heavy rainfall warning for the southern, central, and lakeshore regions on March 14. The heavy rains are driven by a low-pressure system over Malawi, and authorities are urging the public to avoid flood-prone areas and weak structures. Additionally, preparations are advancing for the 5th African Regional Conference on Loss and Damage. Scheduled for March 25 to 27 in Lilongwe, the gathering will focus on securing equitable climate financing and technical support for African nations affected by climate disasters, according to AfricaBrief.