Government has started distributing emergency food aid to vulnerable families affected by the devastating hailstorm that hit Masvingo Province on 5 October 2026, following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declaration of a State of Disaster.
An estimated 17,000 households across the province were affected, with homes suffering extensive damage including roofs blown off and windows shattered.
Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, and Senator Robson Mavhenyengwa, on Saturday led the distribution of food hampers to the elderly, people with disabilities, orphans and child-headed families at Mucheke Hall and Tirivanhu Community Centre in Victoria Range.
The relief packages comprise mealie-meal, rice, cooking oil, blankets and buckets. Government said it has also mobilized building materials and medicines for affected communities.
Chadzamira said Government was prioritizing the most vulnerable as recovery efforts continue.
“As Government, we are making sure that assistance reaches those affected, particularly the elderly, persons with disabilities, children and other vulnerable members of our communities. We want to assure affected families that Government is working to support them as we continue with the recovery process,” he said.
Mavhenyengwa commended Government’s intervention and appealed for more support from stakeholders.
“We are grateful for the assistance that Government has provided to the affected families. These communities went through a very difficult experience, and the food assistance will go a long way in helping families as they recover,” he said.
“We are also appealing to stakeholders and well-wishers to continue supporting the affected communities.”
Government said it has been working with non-governmental organizations, churches and other partners to provide humanitarian assistance, with a focus on ensuring no one is left behind.
The distribution exercise is ongoing in other affected areas of the province.
Via:Masvingo Provincial Information Desk
