By Br. Alfonce Kugwa
Caritas Zimbabwe in partnership with Care International in Zimbabwe have on 03 February 2023 donated five state of the art laptops to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works which will be used by the Department of Civil Protection Unit to capture and disseminate information in relation to disaster management.
The laptops were handed over to the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Marian Chombo at her offices in Harare. The two partners, Caritas Zimbabwe and Care International in Zimbabwe applauded the cordial relationship existing at all levels of government in relation to civil protection. Care International in Zimbabwe is recognized as a member of the National Civil Protection Unity. The two partners (Caritas and Care) are jointly implementing a project to strengthen disaster preparedness, structures and systems in Zimbabwe together with government through funding from ECHO. The project is being run in three provinces of Manicaland, Mashonaland Central and Matebeleland North.
Presenting the laptops, Caritas National Coordinator, Mr. Marius Zibgwi praised the government for the collaboration in mitigating disasters and in facilitating information dissemination at all levels. He insisted that disaster management begins with information which helps people to prepare and respond accordingly. Mr. Zibgwi also appreciated the relationship between Caritas Zimbabwe and Care International in Zimbabwe.
Care International in Zimbabwe Country Director, Patrick Sikana said his organisation was resolved to assist the government of Zimbabwe in mitigating disasters.
“Because of global climate change, these disasters are likely to continue and we are resolved to make sure that the capacity needed to respond and restore life in the community remains the same,” said Sikana.
He said his organisation remain focused on women and girls as they are the most affected during times of disaster.
Appreciating the gesture of the donation, Hon. Marian Chombo acknowledged the role being played by Care International in Zimbabwe and caritas Zimbabwe in fighting disasters.
“I have the conviction that through solidarity and partnerships we can tackle the common risks and hazards that threaten us. Hydro-meteorological hazards such as droughts, cyclones, hailstorms, among others are evidence of climate change, and Zimbabwe experienced and continues to experience same. Government is committed to enhance preparedness and mitigation of various hazards. These efforts are also complemented by our valued development partners,” said Hon Chombo.
Hon Chombo commended the support that government continues to receive from NGOs in advancing public safety through provision of reliable communication systems.
“I would like to commend efforts by the European Union Humanitarian Aid, CARE International in Zimbabwe and CARITAS Zimbabwe in complementing Government efforts by providing reliable communication systems which are critical in dispatching early warning information and massive evacuation guidelines on rapid onset disasters,” said Hon Chombo.