The ManicaPost
THE country is counting losses of the devastating effects of Cyclone Idai that left a trail of destruction in Chipinge and Chimanimani districts.
The ghastly weather phenomenon, which is associated with heavy downpours that result in flooding and strong winds, also hit some parts of Masvingo.
Because of their proximity to Mozambique where the cyclone came from, the Chipinge and Chimanimani districts were at the receiving end of what the tropical storm had to offer.
As of Wednesday this week, more than 100 people were killed in the resultant flash floods while thousands more were displaced from their homes as rivers burst their banks.
Hundreds more are still missing.
Infrastructure worth millions of dollars was destroyed in the wake of the cyclone that also left 90 percent of Beira city in a total mess.
Roads in the two districts were badly damaged, bridges were swept away, electricity transmission poles were uprooted while fresh water reticulation systems were destroyed.
As a nation, we have to draw lessons on how best we can confront these harsh unpredictable weather conditions that seldom hit inland countries like Zimbabwe.
President Mnangagwa was spot on when he said this is a big lesson for the country.
Although there was awareness through radio, newspapers and various other social media platforms, more could have been done — just like what happened during last year’s Cholera outbreak to reach out to some of the remotest parts of Chimanimani and Chipinge districts where communication problems are prevalent because of the mountainous nature of the terrain.
However, despite a litany of economic challenges facing the country, largely because of sanctions, Government’s response to the tragedy was (and is) commendable.
Through the two percent tax, the Ministry of finance quickly disbursed $50 million as an emergency response to the devastating effects of Cyclone Idai.
That money will be used to mend roads, bridges and other basic infrastructure that was wiped away in the storm.
Yes, while all the required funds and resources are being mobilised to bail out villagers from the two districts by Government, the donor community and other well wishers, it is everyone’s wish that the collected funds and items be used for the intended purpose.
During his visit to the affected areas on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa assured the villagers that no one should die of hunger as there was enough food to feed everyone. He also reiterated that Government will come hard on individuals who divert donated funds and items for personal gain.
In most cases, during times of problems and hardship like these there are a few malcontents who want to cash-in on the crisis and line their pockets while the majority suffer.
We urge the law enforcement agents to be watchful and ensure that recipients of this aid are duly given their share.
It is imperative that during these hard times the spirit of ubuntu must fill us all. People must respect humanity and they must be prepared to help the next person.
Tragedies like these must unite Zimbabweans regardless of race, politics and religion.
Moreso, attempts to seek political mileage over the effects of natural disasters without proffering tangible remedies to rehabilitate affected families are misplaced.
What the country needs at the moment are responsible citizens who have a heart for the other person.
However, judging from the past week’s events, Zimbabweans are a united people.
It is clear that the effects of this cyclone will be quickly rubbed by the tremendous efforts that are being exhibited by Zimbabweans in helping their brothers and sisters in Chipinge and Chimanimani.
The nation is in a helping mood and anyone with something to spare should come on board.
If that spirit persists beyond this cyclone tragedy into the future, most of the challenges facing the country will be overcome easily.
