Cyclone Idai has left devastation and death in its wake as it hit countries in the South East of Africa thought to be one of the worst recorded to hit the region.

Across Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe thousands are still missing. An appeal has been launched by the Disasters Emergency Committee. (DEC)

The Scottish Government has announced £150,000 to support relief efforts in the countries affected.

Ben Macpherson, International Development Minister in the Scottish Government said:

“Our thoughts are with all of those affected by the terrible consequences of Cyclone Idai, and as an outward-looking, compassionate country it is right that we do what we can to support the international response to this humanitarian emergency.

“This funding will help aid agencies in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to deliver life-saving support to local families and communities in desperate need, as will all public donations to the DEC Scotland appeal.”

The Scottish Government is also providing £175,000  to support emergency flood relief in Malawi. That funding will go to the Hydro Nation experts already in the country to deliver emergency action targeting the most at-risk water supplies.

Scotland Aims to be the World’s First Hydro Nation

The DEC comprises 14 aid agencies: Action Against Hunger, ActionAid UK, Age International, British Red Cross, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Christian Aid, Concern Worldwide UK, Islamic Relief Worldwide, Oxfam GB, Plan International UK, Save the Children UK, Tearfund and World Vision UK.

Reporter: Fiona Grahame