In Zimbabwe, the effects of a severe drought are taking a toll on rural communities, leaving many families struggling to put food on the table. With the 2024 harvest expected to be very poor due to historically dry conditions, the World Food Programme has stepped in to provide much-needed aid to those in need.

One such beneficiary is 75-year-old gogo Philomina Ncube, who, along with her two grandchildren, has been surviving on one meal a day. The recent distribution of food aid in Mangwe, Matebeleland South, has brought a glimmer of hope to her and many others in similar situations. As she carries her package of food home, gogo Ncube expresses her gratitude for the assistance, acknowledging the dire circumstances they were facing before the aid arrived.

The distribution comes at a critical time, as a survey has revealed that 2.7 million people in Zimbabwe are food insecure. The World Food Programme has allocated aid to four districts, aiming to reach 230,000 people in need. The promise of continued support during the lean season is a lifeline for many vulnerable communities facing food insecurity.

The impact of the drought extends beyond food insecurity, with water and pasture conditions deteriorating across the country. The scarcity of resources has led to livestock deaths and limited access to income-earning opportunities, further exacerbating the crisis. Villagers like Aaron Hangwa fear a repeat of the devastating 1974 drought if assistance is not sustained.

As prices soar and the cost of living increases, households are struggling to afford basic food needs. The exchange rate fluctuations have added to the financial strain, making it challenging for families to make ends meet. With high food assistance needs expected throughout 2024, stakeholders must prepare for continued support to prevent a humanitarian crisis.

The resilience and determination of communities like gogo Ncube’s highlight the urgent need for ongoing assistance to address the food insecurity crisis in Zimbabwe. Through collaborative efforts and sustained support, vulnerable populations can weather the challenges brought on by the drought and build a more secure future for themselves and their families.