BY MOSES MUGUGUNYEKI MUZARABANI, one of the country’s marginalised areas perennially affected by cyclones, has transformed, thanks to the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) humanitarian assistance.
Speaking at the belated World Red Cross Day district commemorations held in Chadereka on Saturday, Muzarabani district development co-ordinator John Chihobo said: “I want to reaffirm that, indeed, here in Zimbabwe and in Muzarabani specifically, the Red Cross is working with vulnerable communities, giving help, commitment, energy and time.
“They reached thousands of vulnerable populations, building stronger communities through food security and livelihoods, water and sanitation, health and social services, disaster risk management, restoration and maintenance of family links as well as first aid and nurse aide training services.”
The weekend commemorations were held under the theme We Are Human Kind.
Chihobo said Muzarabani, in arid natural region IV which receives little rainfall, is prone to severe weather patterns such as flooding and drought.
He added that Red Cross programmes in the district were in sync with this year’s theme.
ZRCS Mashonaland Central provincial chairperson Crisbon Mudyiwa said: “This year, we have gathered to celebrate and acknowledge the acts of kindness exhibited by the volunteers and staff during the pandemic and other emergencies. We have plenty of such volunteers here in Muzarabani, who dedicate their time and resources to serve humanity.”
ZRCS Mashonaland Central provincial manager Tonderai Nyamupfukudza said this year’s commemorations came at a time of unprecedented health and humanitarian challenges.
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He said despite these challenges, Red Cross staff and volunteers gave lifelines to local communities in need, sometimes risking their own safety.
Notable projects that the Red Cross undertook in Muzarabani over the years include the Chiwenga and Chadereka water project, the Chadereka footbridge and construction of a classroom and maternity waiting shelter in Chiwenga ward.
The organisation has also been involved in food security as well as water, sanitation and hygiene activities.
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