Bernard Mutambudzi

Ministry of Health and Child Care is closely monitoring the health situation in Chimanamani and  has put up a facility at Skyline junction to help the victims of Cyclone Idai that hit Chimanimani and Chipinge in Manicaland Province.

Medication has been sourced and patients with severe injuries would be transferred to Chipinge and Birchenough Bridge hospitals respectively.

Chimanimani District Medical Officer (DMO), Godfrey Choga assured people that their health won’t be compromised because of the Cyclone.

“People in affected areas should be rest assured that Government will do everything possible to make sure that they continue getting their health services as usual.

“We have mobilized more nurses because those at Ngangu Clinic are overwhelmed,” said Choga.

Harare Post has learnt Government’s disaster preparedness has been hailed following the swift action taken by Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) that moved in to clear the roads which had been become inaccessible.

Government quickly reacted by activating the Civil Protection Units after President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the cyclone national disaster and Government pledged $50 million and appealed both private and public sectors to help.

Government also successfully appealed to international organisations to bring forward their donations through the District Administrator’s office to mitigate effects of the unfolding humanitarian crisis and synchronize the process.

Private companies, NGOs, church organisations and private individuals made donations in cash and kind to feed and shelter the cyclone victims as the Country remains united to mitigate the plight of fellow Zimbabweans in their moment of need.

So far the flood victims have received tents, food items, clothes, blankets and other essentials while SADC countries continue to send their donations.

The Country will soon receive a consignment from the United Arab Emirates which is sending two cargoes in various assortments including medicine to help Cyclone Idai victims.