The government of Zimbabwe has declared a national state of disaster following heavy rains which pounded most parts of the country causing floods that have caused havoc.
The heavy rains have since claimed lives, destroyed bridges, roads, schools and thousands of homesteads.
Speaking to ZBC News, after a cabinet meeting in Harare this Tuesday, the Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Cde Saviour Kasukuwere confirmed the declaration saying several modalities are being put in place to mobilise funds to help flood victims and repair infrastructure.
The government is looking to partner with the private sector and non-governmental organisations to mend the destroyed infrastructure which will cost millions of dollars.
According to the New Day, about 800 flood victims are temporarily being housed in an overcrowded tents at Sipepa Clinic, amid fears that the numbers could increase, as more villagers seek refuge at the site following the destruction of their houses.
Aid agencies such as the Red Cross Society of Zimbabwe (ZRCS), Plan International, United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) and others have come to the aid of affected villagers, providing food, tents and toilets, but the situation remains dire.
The worst affected are areas in the southern parts of the country that are receiving heavy downpours in excess of 100mm a day
President Robert Mugabe on Friday donated 10 000 tonnes of mealie meal and other groceries to assist the flood victims at the camp, while government is also considering relocating them to higher land, where there is less risk of flooding, as a permanent solution.