Increase Gumbo
CHIREDZI – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported an estimated 11 500 people affected by the El Nino-induced drought in Chiredzi district to implement self-help projects.
Speaking during a press conference held at Nesbitt Arms hotel recently, United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator who is also the UNDP Resident Representative, Bishow Parajuli said Chiredzi was identified as one of the most affected district.
The UNDP recently revived the Magogogwe irrigation scheme to ensure food security at household level.
“We have identified Chiredzi as one of the most affected districts in the country and our target is to offer help to all the people who need help. We have so far reached 3 500 households in and around Chiredzi district where we provide emergency assistance while working with local communities for their long-term sustenance,” said Parajuli.
He said the UN was working with through its agencies like as Plan International, Oxfam and World Food Programme to equip distressed communities so that they can build their capacities to support themselves.
At least 11 500 people are receiving US$7 per month in aid from the UN and a total of 3 500 households have so far benefitted from this programme.
On future plans, Parajuli said they were working towards covering all vulnerable people and move beyond the 70 percent of affected people they are currently assisting.
Government has also partnered all international relief efforts, and is taking an active role to feed stricken communities; having so far imported almost 220 000 metric tonnes of maize for distribution to affected villagers for the next six months.
Director in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Anderson Chiraya told journalists that government will continue to work for the alleviation of hunger and the strengthening of capacity of communities to support themselves.news
