Nice Public Trust has called upon people in the country to be vigilant and monitor the use of the COVID-19 funds.

The call comes a day after President Lazarus Chakwera reported that the country is in need of K170 billion to win the battle against Coronavirus.

But in a statement, Nice Public Trust Executive Director Ollen Mwalubunju said those responsible for COVID-19 funds be accountable.

“We are appealing to those handling and responsible for COVID-19 funds to be transparent and accountable and ensure that the funds are utilized to fight and manage the pandemic,” said Mwalubunju.

According to Mwalubunju, if people in the country suspect any malpractice, they should not hesitate, but report such cases to appropriate authorities like the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

NICE Public Trust has also appealed to government to increase COVID-19 testing centers to ensure that they are accessible, affordable, effective and efficient.

Mwalubunju said government should make masks affordable and accessible to all Malawians by rolling out a free mask distribution exercise either through donations or procured using government resources.

The Trust has also challenged people in the country to take the responsibility of making sure that their right to life is safeguarded by being responsible in following the said ways of preventing the spread of the virus.

Over 200 people have died of Coronavirus in Malawi ever since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in April last year.