adminAnesu Tonde and Munashe Muchero
The Roman Catholic Church is set to raise US$1 million to source food and support households facing shortages owing to recurring droughts.
A report by the World Food Programme (WFP) released recently notes that 7,7 million people are food insecure.
Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) president Archbishop Robert Christopher Ndlovu told journalists last week that they have already raised US$200 000.
“Our target is to raise US$1 million that will benefit all the vulnerable people in Zimbabwe, especially children,” said Archbishop Ndlovu.
“So far we have managed to raise US$200 000 and we have a shortfall of US$800 000.
“We will distribute food to all the vulnerable people countrywide, especially in Regions Four and Five.”
Archbishop Ndlovu said as Catholic bishops, they agreed that each diocese will set up fundraising structures to mobilise food aid in cash and kind.
“Our target is to reach out to as many victims of the drought as possible,” he said.
“Our goal is to mobilise sufficient food aid in order for us to make a difference to the lives of the many millions who face starvation, including children, women and those living with HIV/Aids.
“All donations will be handled in a transparent manner and all distribution will be monitored closely so that there will be transparency and fairness.”
Southern Africa is experiencing a massive drought, with up to 45 million people expected to require food assistance.
Poor rains have affected food output and there is food insecurity in urban and rural communities.
The gesture by the Catholic church comes as Government has made strides in providing food to families.
President Mnangagwa has indicated that no one will starve as his Government will do everything to import food.
Online Reporter