President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reassured the nation that sufficient grain is being distributed under the Food Deficit Mitigation Programme to cushion vulnerable communities affected by the ongoing El Niño-induced drought.
Speaking during the last cabinet briefing of 2024 the President emphasized the government’s commitment to timely food aid delivery across the country.
“Following my declaration of the state of disaster for the 2023/2024 summer season due to the El Niño-induced drought, sufficient grain continues to be distributed to beneficiaries,” Mnangagwa stated.
He underscored the need for efficiency in delivering both food aid and agricultural inputs to ensure no community is left behind. While acknowledging occasional challenges in aid distribution, the President urged all stakeholders to work together to address delays and ensure seamless implementation of mitigation measures.
The El Niño weather phenomenon has led to below-average rainfall, severely impacting maize production and leaving many households food insecure. The Food Deficit Mitigation Programme aims to stabilize food supplies and protect livelihoods as the country grapples with one of the harshest droughts in recent years.
President Mnangagwa’s assurance comes as the government ramps up efforts to combat the drought’s effects, prioritizing rural and marginalized communities most affected by the crisis.
