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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

PUBLIC Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo has emphasised that beneficiaries of the drought relief programme should not be charged money for the transport from the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots to villages.

In the past unscrupulous authorities have been charging villagers exorbitant prices purported to be for transporting grain from depots to distribution points.

In a statement addressed to Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Moyo said the Government will cover transport costs.

“Please be advised that transportation of grain from Grain Marketing Board depots to the various food distribution points close to the wards will be paid for by the Government. My Ministry has already engaged the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion to ensure that the Government covers all the costs of bringing food aid to the food-insecure households. Accordingly, no beneficiaries should be asked to pay for the service. Please be guided accordingly,” he said.

The Government has rolled out food distribution across the country under the drought relief programme with vulnerable homesteads receiving grain.

According to the 2023 Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimVAC) report the number of food insecure people in Zimbabwe for 2023/2024 consumption decreased to 26 percent from 38 percent. Therefore during the peak hunger period from January to March 2024 about 2,7 million people will need food assistance compared to 3,8 million from the previous year.

According to the Food and Nutrition Security Policy (2021), food security exists when all people at all times, have physical, social and economic access to food which is safe and consumed in sufficient quantity and quality to meet their dietary needs and food preferences. It is supported by an environment of adequate sanitation, health services and care allowing for a healthy and active life.

@DubeMatutu