Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE food relief programme in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South Province has entered its third phase, expanding its reach to assist about 136 000 vulnerable individuals, up from 68 680 in the previous phase.
This increase comes in response to the devastating effects of the El Niño-induced drought, which has left many households food insecure.
Gwanda District Development Co-ordinator, Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu, said 110 400 beneficiaries are receiving support under the Department of Social Development’s food deficit mitigation strategy, while an additional 25 321 people are being assisted through World Vision’s Africa Risk Capacity programme.
Ms Ndlovu said this intervention is in response to an outcry from community members who appealed for increased food mitigation measures as more households had been left in despair due to the drought situation.
The district engaged the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, who played a key role in securing this assistance.
“We have intensified the drought mitigation programme in the district following an increase in food insecure households as a result of the El Nino-induced drought.
Initially, the programme was assisting 68 680 people under the food deficit mitigation strategy under the Department of Social Development,” said Ms Ndlovu.
“Under the third phase of the programme, which started this month, the number of beneficiaries under the food deficit mitigation strategy has increased to 110 400.
We have also partnered with World Vision, which has come up with a food relief programme that will benefit 25 321 people.”
Ms Ndlovu said the process of registering the beneficiaries is underway. She said the registration process for beneficiaries involves a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure the programme serves its intended purpose. The district drought mitigation committee is closely monitoring the distribution process to maintain transparency and accountability.
“In the past, there have been challenges with some individuals diverting food aid meant for vulnerable households or soliciting funds illegally in exchange for assistance. We’ve made it clear to community leaders and stakeholders that these programmes must be conducted procedurally,” said Ms Ndlovu.
“This ensures alignment with the Government’s ultimate goal of improving livelihoods as part of the Vision 2030 agenda.”
Ms Ndlovu said the food deficit mitigation strategy provides clear guidelines on how the programme should be implemented. She said these measures are crucial for safeguarding the integrity of the initiative. Despite progress, the programme faces logistical hurdles, particularly transport challenges in delivering food grain to various wards.
Ms Ndlovu said efforts are underway to address these issues to ensure the smooth running of the programme.
“We are working to resolve transport challenges to avoid disruptions. We also urge various partners to come on board and complement the Government’s efforts in mitigating the effects of the El Niño-induced drought,” she said.
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