Story by John Nhandara
GOVERNMENT, through the Department of Civil Protection, has reiterated its preparedness to respond to potential disasters following Cabinet’s approval of the National Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan for the 2025/2026 season.
The National Civil Protection Committee convened in Harare on Wednesday to assess the country’s disaster preparedness, guided by the strategic framework for risk reduction and response.
The meeting reviewed the Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan, which focuses on minimising the impact of disasters through enhanced coordination, early preparedness measures, and rapid response mechanisms.
“We have developed a whole-of-government approach, and we are in the process of mobilising resources in areas of infrastructure, social protection and WASH,” Deputy Director Department of Civil Protection, Mr Farai Hokonya said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Civil Protection has warned artisanal and illegal miners to avoid unlawful mining activities in high-risk areas as the rainfall season intensifies.
The warning comes after several miners died following the collapse of an open mine shaft at Chegutu’s Pickstone Mine.
“We do not encourage mining activities during the rainy season. It is sad that we continue losing lives in this way. We are glad that we were able to quickly respond through our partnership with private players. As the department of civil protection, we have chipped in to assist families of the victims with food and coffins,” Mr Hokonya said.
The meeting also saw the Meteorological Services Department giving the seasonal rainfall forecast for the 2025/2026 season.
“October was below normal. November and December were normal to above normal. In January, the northern part is experiencing normal to above-normal temperatures. The bulk of that rainfall is in December. We will have more rainfall in the southern parts than in the northern parts of the country. This is cumulative rainfall,” Director Meteorological Services Department, Mrs Rebecca Manzou said.
The meeting further addressed initiatives such as the Africa Disaster Risk Financing Programme, underscoring Zimbabwe’s commitment to proactive disaster management and risk mitigation strategies.
