The American Red Cross is contributing $50,000 to help those affected by food insecurity caused by drought and below-normal rainfall in Zimbabwe.
The disaster has impacted approximately 2.2 million people—a 32 percent increase since March 2013—primarily in the southern regions of the country. For the past three years, the late onset of rainfall followed by prolonged dry spells, poor agricultural practices and limited access to goods have contributed to a smaller harvest and worsening food security situation.
The Zimbabwe Red Cross is coordinating with the government, partners from the global Red Cross network, and other international organizations to implement food security, water and sanitation, and disaster management programs. With these partners, the Zimbabwe Red Cross hopes to reach 10,500 people with cash grants, agricultural supplies, and water and sanitation activities. Along with providing immediate life-saving needs, they aim to strengthen the affected communities with support for rural farming/gardening and income generation.
The American Red Cross contribution will help the Zimbabwe Red Cross provide immediate relief to the affected populations including cash grants for food, water, and agriculture support.