Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has announced an increase in grain distribution as it continues to cushion vulnerable and food insecure communities from the effects of the El-Nino induced drought.
This came out of a post cabinet briefing in Harare this Tuesday.
This Tuesday saw the 19th cabinet sitting in Harare, with a number of key issues coming up for discussion.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said among the issues that were topical was the increase in the country’s grain distribution, with over 51 415 metric tonnes of grain having been distributed to vulnerable and food insecure people across various provinces by 25 June 2024.
“Additionally a total of 2816.80 metric tonnes have been collected to date across all provinces under the Zunde RaMambo /Isiphala senkosi,” he noted.
Dr Muswere also highlighted that cabinet received an update on the availability of basic commodities across all provinces.
It was noted that the second quarter of 2024 was largely characterised by stability in the prices and availability of basic commodities across the country.
“The ZiG currency slightly appreciated in value by 0.51 percent against the US$ during the period under review with the tight monetary stance that has been maintained having resulted in exchange rate stability, which has translated into the stability of prices of basic commodities on the market. It was also indicated that there is improved ZiG uptake on the market with transactions on point of sale swipe machines seen to be dominant in major formal outlets,” he explained.
The post cabinet briefing also highlighted the strides by government in upgrading and expanding the public health system in a move to meant ensure universal health coverage.
