Civil Protection units activated to deal with natural disasters

Story by Tafara Chikumira

THE government has activated civil protection units across the country as a precautionary measure in case of climate change-induced natural disasters.

Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in Kwekwe this Friday, with the country taking stock of the state of preparedness in dealing with natural disasters ahead of the rainy season.

Local authorities say they are up to the task in handling any problems that might be posed by unfriendly weather phenomenon.

“On behalf of all the local authorities, I would say we have put in place all the mechanisms to ensure the evacuation and protection of victims in times of disasters. Vehicles are in place as well as the newly acquired helicopters to evacuate victims of natural disasters. We have also put in place standby personnel to attend to people who might be affected by the disasters,” said Gokwe North Rural Development Council chief executive officer, Mr Tasiiwa Munyawu.

The government has also put in place measures to ensure marginalised communities get the necessary assistance in times of disaster.

Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honorable Owen Ncube said, “It is critical to note that there is a strong relationship between disasters and inequality, indeed it is worrisome to note that the most vulnerable members in our communities are disproportionately affected by disasters.

“Inequality manifests in different forms that include poverty, differential education, hunger, homelessness, drug abuse and gender inequality, among other manifestation.”

The world has of late witnessed an upsurge of natural disasters like floods and earthquakes as effects of climate change are taking a huge toll on the globe.