44,000 Tonnes of Maize to be Distributed

The Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) has secured over 44,000 tonnes of maize for distribution to people who require immediate humanitarian and financial assistance in 84 districts as a result of the drought.

DMMU National Coordinator, Gabriel Pollen, announced the development during a media briefing in Lusaka.

Pollen stated that the government has launched a humanitarian response for 6.6 million people severely impacted by the drought. This response includes the distribution of relief food. He added that the implementation plan will last 14 months, during which others will receive cash transfers while relief food is delivered. Local structures including churches will be involved in resource management to ensure transparency.

Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, said that the government's drought response plan will continue to include other activities such as dam construction and ensuring that all agricultural and livestock projects are completed.