Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
The World Food Programme has handed over a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado to Zimbabwe’s Department of Civil Protection to strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness and response capacity.
The hand-over ceremony, held in Harare today, was officiated by Local Government and Public Works Deputy Minister Albert Mavhunga.
“This timely contribution speaks directly to our shared commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods and national development gains in the face of increasing disaster risks,” said the Deputy Minister.
He said Zimbabwe continues to experience hazards such as floods and droughts, which require a well-coordinated and adequately resourced response system.
The donated vehicle is expected to enhance mobility for disaster response teams, improving rapid deployment, coordination and access to hard-to-reach areas.
WFP Zimbabwe Representative and Country Director Ms Barbara Clemens said the donation responds to operational needs identified by the Government and is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national systems for emergency preparedness and response.
“This vehicle will support the Department of Civil Protection in conducting assessments, deploying rapidly and coordinating effectively, particularly in hazard-prone areas,” she said.
The Government said the support will also contribute to upcoming initiatives such as the national disaster risk profiling exercise, which aims to strengthen evidence-based planning.
The hand-over reflects continued collaboration between Zimbabwe and WFP in building resilience and protecting vulnerable communities from the impact of disasters.
