Cyclone Freddy, which hit Malawi in March 2023, has left a devastating impact on the lives of women living in rural areas of the country. The cyclone brought with it heavy rains and strong winds, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The impact of the disaster has been particularly severe for women, who have been disproportionately affected by its effects.Mary Namalomba who is a member of RWA Malawi in Nsanje district has lost everything due to flooding. She has indicated that so far 336 RWA members have been affected in the district. Namalomba was also affected by Cyclone Anna last year.
One of the most significant effects of the cyclone on women in rural Malawi has been the destruction of their homes and property. Many women in rural areas live in homes made of mud or thatched roofs, which are highly vulnerable to the strong winds and heavy rainfall brought by Cyclone Freddy. As a result, thousands of women have been left homeless and forced to seek shelter in makeshift camps or with relatives. The loss of their homes and belongings has not only left them physically vulnerable, but also emotionally traumatised.
The loss of homes has also impacted women\’s ability to provide for their families. Many women in rural Malawi rely on small-scale farming to provide food and income for their families. The destruction of crops and farmland has left many women without a source of income, making it difficult to provide for their families. Additionally, the loss of livestock has had a severe impact on women\’s livelihoods. The state President of Malawi has declared a State of Disaster in the southern region particularly in Blantyre, Chikwawa, Nsanje, Phalombe, Thyolo, Mulanje, Zomba, Chiradzulu, Mwanza and Neno districts. At least 190 people have died following heavy rains and strong winds due to Freddy since 12th March, according to Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA).This is a double tragedy for Malawi as this is happening at a time the country is already battered by a cholera outbreak.
Another effect of the cyclone has been the displacement of women from their communities. Women in rural Malawi often have strong ties to their communities, which provide a support system for them and their families. However, the cyclone has forced many women to flee their homes and seek refuge in other areas, breaking these important community ties. The loss of community support has left many women feeling isolated and alone, making it difficult for them to access the resources they need to recover from the cyclone\’s effects. The cyclone had also had a severe impact on women’s development as most women had small loans taken as individuals and some as groups from local microfinances and village bank groups, with the cyclone most of the women have lost their capital. This has had a huge impact on women empowerment and small businesses done by these women.
In conclusion, the effects of Cyclone Freddy on women in rural Malawi have been severe and far-reaching. The loss of homes, livelihoods, and community support has left many women vulnerable and struggling to survive. As the country continues to recover from the cyclone\’s effects, it is essential to prioritise the needs of women and ensure that they have access to the resources and support they need to rebuild their lives. RWA Malawi demands increased awareness about and action to address climate change.
