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Sydney Mubaiwa Masvingo Correspondent
Government will soon embark on a massive food aid distribution programme in Zaka where the number of food-insecure households has significantly increased due to poor yields induced by drought and the recent devastating Cyclone Idai.

The Herald understands that, Zaka experienced a prolonged dry spell at the beginning of the season, with areas like Benzi, Zibwowa and Matara receiving little rainfall.

The little yields that were expected from other parts of the district were destroyed by the cyclone, leaving authorities in a quandary on how to enhance food security, until next agricultural season.

The area’s District Development Coordinator, Mr Ndeya Nyede said in a recent interview, that Government was ready to roll out a food distribution programme.

He said some in some section of the district, the number of households receiving food aid would be reviewed.

“The Government’s food distribution programme is on, but it is a question of the number of households who are being helped according to the level of food insecurity,” said Mr Nyede.

“There is a plan to scale up and even invite partners to assist.

“So far, the Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment (ZimVAC) was carried out and we will soon be compiling reports and the results will then inform us on the critical areas in terms of food security”.

Mr Nyede said Government, in partnership with Christian Care, Zimbabwe Council of Churches had prepared registers of beneficiaries who would continue receiving cyclone relief food items.

“Those who were identified through that assessment will then be assisted through the cyclone relief programme while the other ones will be given food assistance through the social welfare programme,” he said.