(Photo courtesy Global Aid Network)
Zimbabwe (GAIN/MNN) — The worst flooding in almost 40 years hit Zimbabwe at the beginning of the year.
Mass evacuations took place, and while the casualty rates were low, the aftermath has been disastrous. While the heavy flooding appears to be over, residents haven’t sufficient resources. The main provinces requiring humanitarian response are in Matebeleland South, Matebeleland North, Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Masvingo, and Midlands.
The United Nations (UN) says the evacuees were put in an area ill-equipped to handle the sudden influx. About 2,500 families (roughly 4,615 people) who were evacuated to the camp are living in precarious conditions with water, food, and medicine shortages.
(Photo courtesy Global Aid Network)
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says current maize food stocks will run out at the end of March.
According to Global Aid Network (GAIN USA), the unusually heavy downpours also caused major damage to agricultural lands, destroying maize crops (the main staple). This won’t help Zimbabwe’s chronic food shortages and malnutrition problems.
(Photo courtesy Global Aid Network)
Therefore, GAiN sent 900 water filters. The shipment will supply water for hydration and hygiene for 18,000 people. Although other aid efforts are ongoing with on-the-ground partners, GAIN is sending a special team this July.
Their purpose is to help build spiritual movements and empower local staff to share Christ’s love and compassion through projects that include: pastor training, a mobile medical clinic, rebuilding/renovating primary and secondary schools, water well refurbishment, sports (soccer) camps, Vacation Bible School, and agriculture.
Please pray for the people of Zimbabwe. Pray for wisdom for the partners as they respond to the needs, and pray for open hearts to the Gospel.
