THE MDC-T Matabeleland North leadership has pulled resources together to donate food and an assortment of goods to Tsholotsho flood victims, who were temporarily sheltered in tents at Sipepa Clinic.
Source: MDC-T respite for flood victims – NewsDay Zimbabwe March 22, 2017
BY NQOBANI NDLOVU
A delegation led by Matabeleland North Proportional Representation MP, Lwazi Sibanda visited Sipepa Clinic on Saturday, where they donated 200kg mealie-meal, 50kg chunks, 20kg salt, two boxes sanitary pads, mineral water, one bale of assorted clothing and 100 pairs of assorted footwear.
Over 800 families were currently housed at the Sipepa flood victim camp. Sipepa councillor Qakathekile Ncube, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, told Southern Eye, the villagers had indicated they were scared to return to their homes.
“We feel that what they have is still inadequate. They are crowded in the tents. More tents are required, but we hope that our small donation will go a long way in meeting some of their immediate needs.
“In our interactions with them, most indicated that they do not want to go back to their home. This then calls for construction of a permanent settlement near the centre and fencing of their fields on the affected villagers,” Ncube said.
President Robert Mugabe was last week caught in the eye of a storm over the plight of the villagers when it was revealed he had donated snacks instead of food to the desperate citizens.
The villagers were forced off their homes after the Gwayi River burst its banks in the wake of incessant rains brought by Cyclone Dineo.
At least 200 people have lost their lives, while property running into millions of dollars has been destroyed by the floods.
Government is seeking international aid to help the flood victims.
The country’s southern districts from east to west have been the most affected, with others in the northern parts of the country also bearing the brunt of the negative weather phenomenon.
Early this month, MDC-T vice-president Thokozani Khupe, accompanied by lawmakers including Health Portfolio Committee chairperson Ruth Labode and Nomvula Mguni, donated 150 blankets, 400kg of mealie meal, 200kg of chunks, three cartons of cooking oil and salt.
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