Story by Peter Chivhima
THIRTEEN people from the Chief Sengwe area in Chiredzi District of Masvingo Province have been rescued by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) after being stranded at Mazuva Dam along the Mwenezi River.
The rescue operation was carried out due to the rising water levels in the dam, which resulted in the villagers under Kraal Head Magwambani’s area being trapped and unable to cross to safety.
The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) reacted swiftly and deployed a helicopter to the area in response to calls for help.
The stranded villagers, including young children and the elderly, were airlifted to safety in a carefully coordinated operation.
The oldest was 72, with the youngest being a three-month-old baby.
In an interview with ZBC News this Saturday, AFZ Director Operations Group Captain Joseph Mavengere said the ZDF is ready to assist communities.
“Looking ahead, our focus is on strengthening both capacity and capability. We are continuously investing in advanced training for personnel, modernising our equipment, and enhancing coordination with national and regional partners. This includes adopting new technologies such as improved aerial surveillance systems and communication tools,we are also placing emphasis on preparedness to ensure faster and more effective responses, particularly in light of increasing climate-related disasters.
“Ultimately, our goal is to build a more resilient and responsive rescue system that serves the people of Zimbabwe with excellence and reliability. Let me assure the nation that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces remains fully committed to protecting lives. We stand ready at all times to respond to emergencies. Our message to the nation is simple: we are here to save lives,” he said.
The latest rescue operation comes after the ZDF rescued marooned individuals in Midlands Province, as incessant rains cause more flooding.
