As Zimbabwe is reeling under pressure inflicted on the debt ridden country, thousands are starving and destitution is the common sight than exception. World Food Program (WFP) puts that an estimated US$293 million is required immediately to meet the growing needs arising from food shortages.
Drought, flooding and macroeconomic meltdown have plunged at least 7.7 million people – half of the population – into severe hunger, says WFP, adding that if emergency packages are not evolved and implemented, on a war footing, the situation would take an ugly turn. Yet, it is reported that less than 30% of the required US$293 million has been mobilized, and the rest, the agency says, should be organized in the next few days.
The problem being faced by Zimbabwe is further compounded by hyper inflation, stressed foreign exchange position, unemployment, corruption, hoarding and lack of fuel. The present state of affairs is a macabre cocktail of many things, which is very difficult to address.
