Zimbabwe Cabinet reports progress on food security and urban cash transfer programmes

Online Writer

HARARE, Zimbabwe — In the 35th post-Cabinet briefing held on 29 October 2024, the Zimbabwe Cabinet reviewed the Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy and Urban Cash Transfer Programme, as presented by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare July Moyo.

The Cabinet reported that the second Blitz Food distribution has successfully moved a total of 94 527.64 metric tonnes of cereal across the country as of 22 October 2024, achieving 62.7 percent of the targeted 139 854.94 metric tonnes. This initiative aims to support vulnerable and food-insecure populations in various provinces.

The distribution of grain has been allocated as follows:
– Manicaland 17 443.58 metric tonnes
– Mashonaland Central 10 276.49 metric tonnes
– Mashonaland East 17 525.21 metric tonnes
– Mashonaland West 10 987.69 metric tonnes
– Masvingo 12 380.14 metric tonnes
– Matabeleland North 8 605.99 metric tonnes
– Matabeleland South 6 460.64 metric tonnes
– Midlands 10 847.90 metric tonnes

Additionally, the Cabinet noted that 4 362.51 metric tonnes have been collected by local chiefs through the Zunde RaMambo/Isiphala Senkosi Strategic Grain Reserve Distribution Programme.

As part of the Urban Cash for Cereal Programme, cash disbursements have commenced, reaching 28 726 beneficiaries as of 28 October 2024. Furthermore, the School Feeding Programme has successfully collected 17 250.80 metric tonnes of mealie-meal/maize grain by 25 October 2024.

The Government’s efforts reflect a commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities through comprehensive food distribution and cash transfer initiatives.