The Government has launched food aid distribution to vulnerable communities nationwide in response to the El Niño-induced drought. Additionally, plans are underway to introduce the Urban Cash for Cereal Transfer Programme to support vulnerable urban residents. This update was shared with the cabinet on June 25, 2024, by Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, July Moyo.
There has been a significant improvement in the distribution of grain across the country, bringing much-needed relief to vulnerable communities. As of June 22, 2024, a total of 46,494.52 metric tonnes of grain had been distributed, with beneficiaries receiving a three-month allocation.
The distribution of grain to vulnerable and food-insecure people by province since the beginning of the blitz in May 2024 is as follows:
- Manicaland: 6,894.64 metric tonnes
- Mashonaland Central: 5,524.25 metric tonnes
- Mashonaland East: 4,935.55 metric tonnes
- Mashonaland West: 5,719.83 metric tonnes
- Masvingo: 9,149.49 metric tonnes
- Matabeleland North: 2,827.50 metric tonnes
- Matabeleland South: 4,542.27 metric tonnes
- Midlands: 6,926.81 metric tonnes
Regarding the Zunde RaMambo/Isiphala Senkosi initiative, a total of 2,588.29 metric tonnes had been collected across all provinces.
The Government has also mapped all provinces for the urban population that will receive cash under the Urban Cash for Cereal programme, with disbursement set to commence soon.
The distribution of food to vulnerable communities and the provision of cash for cereal in urban areas are part of President Mnangagwa’s efforts to ensure that no one dies of hunger.
