Bongani Ndlovu
Prosper Ndlovu/ Theseus Shambare in BULILIMA
HUNDREDS of food-insecure households in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South Province, on Thursday received critical food assistance under a lean season support programme led by the World Food Programme and the Government with support from the Russian Federation, bringing relief as communities await the upcoming harvest.
The programme, targeting orphans, the elderly, child-headed households as well as persons with disabilities, is providing a lifeline at a time when some families, especially in drought-prone regions like Bulilima are struggling to meet their daily food needs following poor harvests last year.
The situation is, however, expected to improve this year as man brace for a bumper harvest following good rains received across the country.
Under the initiative, which covers the period January to March, each beneficiary is receiving a monthly food basket comprising 7.5kg of cereals, 1.6kg of pulses and 0.6kg of vegetable oil, aimed at improving household nutrition and cushioning communities during the peak of the lean season.
Speaking during a food distribution programme at Malalume area, WFP head for External Relations Ifeoma Garba, representing the Country Director Ms Barbara Clemens, said the intervention reflects the importance of strong partnerships in addressing food insecurity.
“This assistance is reaching families at a critical time when food is most scarce. By working together, we are helping communities cope and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she said.
Also present at the event, Deputy Russian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Sergey Kuzin said such humanitarian support is part of broader efforts to assist vulnerable communities facing climate-related challenges.
“Collective action between governments and international partners remains key in addressing food insecurity and strengthening resilience at community level,” he said.
Government, through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that food assistance reaches all vulnerable households in a timely and efficient manner.
Acting Chief Director of Social Development and Disability Affairs Mr Tawanda Zimhunga said the ongoing programme demonstrates the importance of collaboration in responding to humanitarian needs.
“This support will go a long way in cushioning vulnerable households during this difficult period and ensuring that communities remain food secure,” he said.
Beneficiaries in the district welcomed the support, describing it as timely relief as they look forward to the next harvest.
Mr Stewart Sibanda of Tjakuda Village said the assistance had come at a crucial moment for his family.
“We were running out of food and surviving on one meal a day. This support has brought relief and hope as we wait for our crops in the fields,” he said.
Ms Jane Ndlovu, also from the area, said the food distribution would help ease pressure on households that have endured a difficult season.
“This will go a long way in helping us feed our children. The situation has been tough, but now we can manage as we prepare for the harvest,” she said.
The support comes as Zimbabwe intensifies measures to ensure that no household is left behind during the lean season, while laying the groundwork for improved agricultural productivity in the coming season.
Online Reporter