Lupane Chief Seeks Transport for El Niño-Drought Relief Grain Delivery

Chief Menyezwa of Lupane has issued an urgent appeal for transport to deliver 5 tonnes of El Niño-drought relief grain aid to the Dongamuzi area in Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe. The grain, allocated by the government to alleviate the effects of the drought, is currently stored at the Lupane Grain Marketing Board (GMB) but cannot be transported because there are not enough vehicles.

The grain aid is part of a broader government initiative to support the most vulnerable groups in the region, including those above 70 years old, who will receive 7.5 kilograms of grain each until next year. Chief Menyezwa emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Our grain allocation has been made available at Lupane GMB, but the challenge is that we do not have transport to take it to our ward."

The government has started distributing food aid to areas severely affected by the El Niño-induced drought. Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka outlined the process, noting that the movement of grain involves two stages: from surplus areas to GMB and then from GMB to mid-rural areas.

The El Niño-drought relief efforts in Zimbabwe have significant implications for the country's food security and the well-being of its citizens. If the grain aid is not delivered in a timely manner, it could exacerbate the already dire situation, leading to increased hunger, malnutrition, and even loss of life.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the drought a national disaster and has appealed for US$3 billion to address the food insecurity crisis. The United Nations has also issued a flash appeal for US$429.3 million in humanitarian assistance, targeting close to 3.1 million people facing drought in Zimbabwe.

Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs Minister Richard Moyo confirmed that each chief in the province has received 5 tonnes of grain aid and that the chief's committee is responsible for distribution. "The chief's committee is the one responsible for the distribution. It is a separate programme from social welfare," Moyo explained.

The El Niño-induced drought has severely impacted Zimbabwe, with close to 60% of the population in dire need of food aid. The Household-based Village-coordinated Rapid Vulnerability Assessment and the Urban Food and Nutrition Council assessment indicate the severity of the situation.

Chief Menyezwa's appeal highlights the logistical challenges faced in delivering vital aid to remote areas. *"We are appealing to those who can assist us with transport,"* he said, urging well-wishers to come forward and help bridge the gap.

The ongoing drought crisis highlights the urgent need for effective coordination and support to ensure that aid reaches those most in need. The situation's development underscores the critical need for transport assistance to the success of the relief efforts in Matabeleland North.

Key Takeaways

• Chief Menyezwa appeals for transport to deliver 5 tonnes of drought relief grain aid to Dongamuzi area.
• Zimbabwe government allocates grain aid to support vulnerable groups, including those above 70 years old.
• El Niño-drought relief efforts face logistical challenges, including transportation to remote areas.
• Zimbabwe declares drought a national disaster, appealing for US$3 billion to address food insecurity crisis.
• UN issues flash appeal for US$429.3 million in humanitarian assistance to target 3.1 million people facing drought.