Political Use of Food Aid Raises Concern Amidst Famine Crisis

Some political analysts and members of the opposition are raising concerns over the politicisation of food distribution to those in need, a trend they

USAID

Some political analysts and members of the opposition are raising concerns over the politicisation of food distribution to those in need, a trend they fear will worsen amidst the country's dire famine situation.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, addressing the nation on Wednesday, officially declared the famine as a pressing issue requiring urgent attention, branding it a national disaster. He appealed to foreign nations, aid agencies, and Zimbabweans abroad to lend their support in tackling the crisis.

Assuring citizens, Mr Mnangagwa vowed that no one would succumb to hunger, pledging equitable distribution of food aid to all deserving individuals. [post_ads]

However, Mr. Valentine Ziswa, an authority in food distribution and former head of the Christian Care organisation, dismissed the President's assurances as mere rhetoric, likening his promises to a river that cannot be dammed by mere words.

Mr Ziswa expressed concerns over the reported politicisation of food aid by the ruling Zanu PF party, alleging its use as a tool to influence voters in various regions.

In response, Mr. Kennedy Mandaza, a member of Zanu PF, defended the President's stance, asserting the government's commitment to ensuring fair access to food aid, irrespective of its source.

Mr Mandaza urged individuals who have faced food deprivation due to political motives to report such incidents to the authorities for redress.

According to aid organisations and food researchers, the number of individuals in need of assistance is expected to surge, exacerbated by poor harvests attributed to climate change induced by the El Nino phenomenon. [post_ads_2]

The World Food Programme (WFP) has extended its Lean Season Assistance programme to four districts – Buhera, Chivi, Mangwe, and Mwenezi – pledging support to over 260,000 vulnerable individuals in these areas.

Meanwhile, the government asserts its efforts in providing assistance across 56 districts and is conducting a comprehensive study to ascertain the extent of the need nationwide.

The looming famine crisis underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts, both domestically and internationally, to alleviate the suffering of those most vulnerable in Zimbabwe.