Parly watchdog interfaces with Cyclone Idai victims
PARLIAMENTIANS have called for the speedy relocation of people who were affected by Cyclone Idai before the commencement of the rainy season.
The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on local Government, Public Works and National Housing last week carried out an assessment of Cyclone Idai-damaged areas to ascertain the needs of the communities and identify gaps in the provision of services.
The committee visited some of the worst affected areas in Chimanimani district like Ngangu, Machongwe, Kopa as well as some parts of Chipinge district.
Committee chairperson Cde Miriam Chikukwa said Government had covered most of the areas during the recovery phase although there are still some areas that needed to be looked into.
“Generally, the victims appreciate the efforts that Government has made since the disaster hit. During our assessment, we realised that these people need safe accommodation before the rainy season commences. They are not happy sharing tents with their children, which is against our cultural norms. Parents would like to preserve their dignity,” she said.
“In Chipinge they do not want to be in camps. They are calling for us to also consider them when people are resettled. This means that we will be going to discuss the issues in Parliament for the benefit of the victims.”
She said Parliament was worried by reports of people from the surroundings areas who sneaked into the campsin a bid to receive food meant for the homeless.
During the tour, Buhera South legislator Cde Joseph Chinotimba, who is also part of the committee, pledged to donate $10 000 to a primary school in Chipinge.
“After the visit we were enlightened, and touched by the destruction that was caused by cyclone Idai. The gesture by cde Chinotimba to donate $10 000 to a local school was good,” she said.