One and a half million people have been affected by the recent floods in Zambia; several weeks of continuous rain have devastated many areas of the nation. On Friday of this week The Butterfly Tree is air-freighting huge amounts of medical supplies, blankets and clothing to help the victims. Cunninghams Epos Systems are providing the transport to Heathrow and MTEC Global are the shipping agent asssiting in the operation. Our appeal has received a great response from Zambians living in the UK who want support their fellow countrymen during this crisis.
Six thousand people have been displaced in the Southern Province and most of the crops have been destroyed. I shall shortly be flying to Zambia to assess the damage in the Kasungula District where we work.
A settlement has been set up near Livingstone and tents, blankets and food are being distributed by relief agencies. I contacted Shelter Box who are assisting in the crisis and requested that they include Maramba, a badly affected area of Livingstone and I am pleased to report that they have received some of the boxes. Although the country has appealed for international aid it does not always get through to the remote villages which have become inaccessible.
Zambian Floods Emergency Relief : we are appealing for funds to rebuild homes and livelihoods, please give generously by donating online or contact Jane on 01926 843699 or email jane@thebutterflytree.org.uk