adminRunesu Gwidi in BIKITA
The number of families in dire need of food aid in Bikita District has almost doubled to over 17 000 following the devastating Cyclone Idai that swept through the eastern parts of Masvingo Province.
Bikita District Administrator Mr Benard Hadzirabwi said 9 977 families were previously getting 50kg of maize-meal each before Cyclone Idai ravaged the district.
He said assessments by the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) and the Social Welfare Department showed the cyclone disaster triggered an increase in the number of food insecure families to more than 17 500.
“Until February this year, 9 977 families were getting food aid through the department of social welfare,” said Mr Hadzirabwi. “Cyclone ldai disaster affected 4 312 families and left 309 homeless in the district.
“Other families near the Save Valley Conservancy also had their crops destroyed by elephants which left them vulnerable. So on top of the 9 977 we have had an addition of 7 612 people.”
Masvingo provincial administrator Mr Fungai Mbetsa called upon the Social Welfare Department and GMB to ensure that grain is moved quickly to drought-stricken areas.
“We call upon GMB and the Department of Social Welfare to complete their modalities for urgent and adequate supply of grain to the affected families,” he said.
There has been growing concern from villagers in drought-stricken areas over exorbitant charges by transporters moving food aid.
Online Reporter