Lilongwe, Malawi … By international standards the news story is not something that will capture powerful consideration. With all the trauma and chaos in the world a story about villagers in Africa stealing grain from train cars is not something that would usually call for a second look. But, in a country known for its high moral standards, Christian principles, and consideration of others this is quite a surprising, eye-opening news item. What is happening?
The rail line brings wheat and other food commodities across the border into Malawi from Nacala a major seaport on the Mozambique coast. As they enter the country the trains stop at Nayuchi and Nkaya in Liwonde, in order for Malawi Revenue Authority to process incoming paperwork and conduct any needed inspections before the train continues to its destination. With a culture that respects the possessions of others this is not normally a problem, but things are not normal in Malawi. The grave nature of the current famine is causing people to do things outside their normal mode of conduct. In this case villagers near the border rail crossings are stealing wheat from incoming trains, not just a little but a lot of wheat, and it has reached serious proportions as the famine deepens.
Stone Ballast Removed
Not only is the theft of wheat a problem the people are actually removing the ballast stone along the rails to get to the tiny grains of wheat that fall from the cars onto the rail bed. One cannot imagine the number of contaminates on the grains of wheat that have dropped on the rocks and rails. Too, the seriousness of removing the ballast poses a serious problem of rail damage and possible derailment of future trains entering the country.
This conduct is uncharacteristic of the village people of Malawi, but reflects the critical state of the famine, and their need for food.
Getting Food to the People
The Malawi Project is focused on getting food into the country to offset the shortages caused by changing weather patterns earlier in the year. Your financial assistance can make a difference and it is critically needed. Send check or money order to: Malawi Project, c/o Sheila McDonald, 10250 W 275 N. Thorntown IN 46071. You can also donate on line at PayPal or Acceptiva: www.malawiproject.org/donate