Zambian gov't appeals to firms to help raise funds to assist cyclone victims

LUSAKA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government on Tuesday appealed to companies and other stakeholders to help it raise funds meant to support victims of cyclone Idai that hit the neighboring nations of Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

Last week, the government said it will raise resources to help victims of cyclone Idai which has left a trail of destruction in the three countries which requires humanitarian assistance.

Sylvia Chalikosa, Minister in the Vice-President's Office which also handles disasters, said it was imperative that the private sector, cooperating partners and individuals help the government in ensuring that it helps the victims of the cyclone where the death toll has risen to over 700 while 110,000 people have been displaced in the countries.

In remarks delivered at a national response to cyclone Idai meeting between the government and some companies, the official said as a member of the southern African region, Zambia was obliged to offer solidarity with the victims and offer humanitarian assistance.

She said the Office of the Vice-President has been charged with the responsibility of receiving donations for onward delivery to the affected countries and appealed to the companies to render a helping hand.