Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-04-17 10:36:10
Heal Zimbabwe Trust has raised serious concerns over the recent announcement made by Zanu-PF spokesperson, Christopher Mutsvangwa, regarding the ruling party’s proposal to take control of food aid distribution in Zimbabwe. In a press conference held in Harare, Mutsvangwa disclosed the ruling party’s plans to oversee the distribution of food aid in the country amidst the prevalent issue of food insecurity.
The statement made by Mutsvangwa has sparked alarm within Heal Zimbabwe Trust, as the organization has documented various cases of partisan food distribution, where aid has been used as a political tool to marginalize members of opposition political parties. Heal Zimbabwe Trust has strongly condemned such actions, stating that they not only undermine the democratic principles of the nation but also infringe upon the fundamental rights of individuals and communities to receive aid without discrimination.
Citing international standards, such as the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights’ General Comment 12 and the Food Assistance Convention of 2012, Heal Zimbabwe Trust stressed the importance of providing aid solely based on the needs of vulnerable populations without any form of discrimination. With an estimated 3.5 million Zimbabweans currently facing acute food insecurity and in dire need of assistance, the organization called upon the government to ensure transparent and impartial food aid distribution through the Department of Social Welfare, in collaboration with local traditional and elected leadership.
Heal Zimbabwe Trust further urged the Department of Social Welfare to implement stringent mechanisms to prevent the abuse and politicization of aid distribution. Additionally, the organization called upon the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to actively monitor and prevent corruption and misuse of government aid.
In light of the devastating effects of the El Nino-induced drought exacerbating food insecurity in the country, Heal Zimbabwe Trust also called on civil society organizations and developmental partners to diligently monitor and hold all stakeholders accountable in their efforts to alleviate poverty and food insecurity. The organization emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to combat these challenges and ensure that aid reaches those in urgent need without any form of discrimination.
Heal Zimbabwe Trust remains committed to advocating for the transparent and impartial distribution of food aid in Zimbabwe, with a focus on upholding the rights of vulnerable populations and ensuring that aid is allocated based on need rather than political affiliation. The organization stands firm in its dedication to promoting peace, justice, and equality in the country’s efforts to overcome food insecurity and alleviate poverty.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
