By Kuda Pembere
With Zimbabwe reeling from the effects of the El-Nino induced drought amidst a looming lean season, the United States Government has announced a US$39 million additional support to the country.
The US$39 million is part of a US$62 million assistance package extended to Zimbabwe by the US Government.
This was said by the new US Ambassador to Zimbabwe Pamela Tremont at a press conference in Harare on Thursday.
“But El Nino and its drought effects have made this a harder year to farm than usual. That is why yesterday, I informed President Mnangagwa, and today I am pleased to announce to you $62 million in assistance from the people of the United States this year to counter the effects of the current drought in Zimbabwe.
“This funding, including $39 million in additional support, will address short term food insecurity and long-term strategies to improve agricultural practices and strengthen community resilience,” the US Ambassador said.
The assistance coming through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will provide food assistance to over half a million of Zimbabweans.
“Today, the United States, through USAID, announced an additional $39 million in drought response assistance to the people of Zimbabwe as the lean season — when food is scarcest —approaches. The announcement was made by U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe Pamela M. Tremont.
“El Nino weather patterns are causing a historic drought throughout southern Africa, including in Zimbabwe, driving higher than average levels of food insecurity and disrupting agricultural production and livelihoods.
“During the recent October—May agricultural season, 80 percent of Zimbabwe received below-average rainfall, resulting in farmers losing approximately 70 percent of their crops. The Government of Zimbabwe and the United Nations estimate that six million people will require food assistance during the coming November—March lean season
“Through this support from USAID, humanitarian partners will provide over 500,000 people with food assistance during the upcoming lean season; distribute agriculture supplies and livestock to households whose livelihoods have been affected by the drought; and improve access to water for agriculture and consumption,” said the US Embassy in a statement.
USAID has provided nearly $62 million to respond to humanitarian needs in Zimbabwe since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2024.
“The United States stands with the people of Zimbabwe, and we urge other donors to contribute to meeting the humanitarian needs of the Zimbabwean people,” added the US Embassy.
