Nqobile Tshili Chronicle Correspondent
VILLAGERS in some parts of Matabeleland South are being asked to pay $3 per family for them to access the government’s free food aid which is being distributed countrywide. Earlier last month, the government said more than 20,000 households would benefit from 616, 8 tonnes of grain being distributed in Matabeleland South’s seven districts.

However, villagers from Silozwi and Njelele among others in Matobo District, are being asked to pay $3 per family in order to benefit from the food aid. The money is said to be for transporting the food to the area.

Disgruntled villagers said many of those who are supposed to benefit from the food aid were failing to raise the money. Chief Masuku said the issue needs to be investigated because beneficiaries in other areas were being asked to pay $1 per family for transport.

“This is happening in Ward 17 under Councillor Hlongwane. In areas such as Silozwi and Njelele beneficiaries are being asked to pay $3 per family for transport yet in other areas its just $1 per family,” said Chief Masuku. Matobo District Administrator Robert Mzezewa could not be reached for comment as his cell phone rang unanswered.

Matabeleland South Provincial Administrator Midard Khumalo yesterday said food aid was free but if beneficiaries are asked to contribute towards transport costs, this should not be exorbitant. “I’m not aware of that. Food aid is free but I understand that there might be transport challenges.

“This may require villagers to contribute towards transport costs but the amount shouldn’t be exorbitant,” said Khumalo. A villager said: “We’re struggling for survival. We’re told that if we don’t make the payments we’re not going to receive any maize meal.”

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