By George Swarei
President Emmerson D. Mnangagwa declared a nationwide State of Disaster in Zimbabwe following the El Nino-induced drought, which severely affected the agricultural season of 2023 to 2024. The President addressed the nation, highlighting the significant decrease in rainfall, which led to below-normal harvests across more than 80% of the country. The outbreak of Fall Army Worms further compounded the agricultural challenges.
Key points
– The Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee’s 2023 report projected that approximately 2.7 million people would face food insecurity from April 2023 to March 2024. However, the El Nino-induced drought has exacerbated this situation, surpassing the projected food insecurity levels.
– Despite efforts to ensure self-sufficiency through Agricultural and Food Systems Strategies, the Strategic Grain Reserve currently holds 189,568 metric tonnes of cereals. The President allocated 138,905 metric tonnes of surplus wheat to bolster the reserve, bringing the total to approximately 356,000 metric tonnes.
– With an expected harvest of 868,273 metric tonnes, Zimbabwe faces a cereal deficit of nearly 680,000 metric tonnes, necessitating imports. Measures are in place to encourage private sector participation in grain imports, prioritizing food security for all citizens.
– The Winter crop program for 2024 has assumed critical importance, with a focus on expanding wheat cultivation to cover all available irrigable land with secure water sources. Revitalization of winter maize projects in key areas such as Chiredzi, Muzarabani, and Binga is also underway to mitigate the impact of drought.
– Water security is identified as crucial for both human and livestock welfare. Comprehensive interventions, including the Presidential Borehole Drilling Programme, aim to mitigate water scarcity and prevent water-borne diseases.
– Efforts to safeguard livestock and maintain power supply amid reduced hydro-power generation capacity have been highlighted.
Declaration of State of Disaster:
President Mnangagwa invoked Section 27, subsection 1 of the Civil Protection Act, declaring a nationwide State of Disaster due to the severity of the drought. This declaration enables necessary measures to assist and protect affected individuals.
The President called upon Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, as well as the international community, humanitarian partners, private sector, faith-based organizations, and individuals to contribute generously towards alleviating the National Disaster. Preliminary assessments indicate a need for over $2 billion to support the national response efforts.
He assured the nation that the government’s response would be comprehensive and inclusive, leaving no one or place neglected. He urged unity, peace, and support among citizens as Zimbabwe navigates through these challenging times.
