By Staff Reporter
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an additional US$39 million in drought assistance to Zimbabweans.
U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe Pamela Tremont said the aid will support the population during the upcoming lean season. This follows appeals from communities and the government after the humanitarian agency concluded its food distribution program for this year.
“Today, the United States, through USAID, announced an additional $39 million in drought response assistance to the people of Zimbabwe as the lean season – when food is scarcest – approaches,” Tremont said.
“Through this support from USAID, humanitarian partners will provide food assistance to over 500,000 people during the upcoming lean season; distribute agricultural supplies and livestock to affected households; and improve water access for agriculture and consumption. USAID has provided nearly $62 million to address humanitarian needs in Zimbabwe since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2024.”
According to the government, 7.7 million Zimbabweans require food assistance. Zimbabwe declared a state of emergency due to the ongoing El Niño-induced drought. Most districts in the country have not received rainfall since mid-December 2023, resulting in severe human and livestock suffering.
