It is with great sadness to learn about the heartbreaking news that has fallen upon the Southern part of Africa. Cyclone Idai caused severe flooding throughout Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Mozambique and Zimbabwe has resulted in at least 784 deaths thus far. More than 3 million people experienced the direct effects of the cyclone, with hundreds of thousands in need of assistance.
Following the first round of flooding in Mozambique, the government requested US$17.6 million to provide aid for flood victims. The magnitude of the humanitarian crisis overwhelmed rescuers.
Zimbabwe President, Emmerson Mnangangwa, declared a state of emergency soon after the storm and deployed the National Army and Air Force. A command center was established in Harare by 17 March to co-ordinate rescue and relief efforts. Persistent heavy rain, continued flooding, and mudslides hampered relief efforts, leaving many residents stranded without assistance. Harare Councilor Jacon Mafume called the event a "serious humanitarian crisis" and called upon the state for "intervention on a massive scale to avoid biblical disaster". The Government of Zimbabwe allocated RTGS$50 million for emergency response and reconstruction. Medical supplies were sent to Mutare; however, damaged infrastructure hampered distribution. Residents established collection centers in Bulawayo and Harare. Some affected areas remain difficult to reach as of 22 March, including Chimanimani. As people in Canada, we have decided to come together and co-ordinate relief efforts the best way we can. Below are the details of the co-ordinators and the numbers they can be reached at for more information or how you can drop off any supplies you may want to donate.
Should you have any questions, feel free to email me at monumentalartsnetwork@gmail.com and I'll be sure to redirect your question to the rightful person if I have no answer for it.
Be blessed.
