Elestina Chipungu, a project officer with Youth for Development and Productivity (Yodep), emphasized that communities can significantly reduce loss of lives and property during disasters by mastering first aid skills.

Chipungu made this statement on Monday at Sub-Traditional Authority (ST/A) Chimbalanga in Zomba District, where she was overseeing a training session for village disaster risk management committee members as part of Yodep’s Localisation Project. She highlighted that during disasters, these committee members play a crucial role in rescuing survivors and assisting households affected by floods.

“The aim is to ensure that casualties receive immediate first aid within their communities while being transported to hospitals for further treatment,” Chipungu explained.

Additionally, Chipungu noted that the training included components on resource mobilization, helping communities secure funds for necessary materials to support survivors before they receive relief from government and other agencies.

Luciano Phiri, a first aid trainer with the Malawi Red Cross Society, stressed the importance of immediate first aid in emergencies. “Every second counts in a crisis, and first aiders provide essential care until professional help arrives,” he said.

Ben Chipole, chairperson of the Kuchilimba committee, underscored the importance of the skills they have acquired. “First aid skills are crucial for saving lives,” he stated.

Supported by Save the Children, the training covered disaster-related first aid and resource mobilization for committee members from five disaster-prone traditional authorities (T/As) in the district: Mwembere, Nkapita, Mwambo, Chimbalanga, and Kumtumanji.