The government has unveiled a Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan to address the looming threats of floods and other natural disasters during the 2024/2025 rainy season.
Officials are gearing up for tropical cyclones, floods, landslides, heatwaves, and other potential calamities, aiming to protect lives and property, especially in high-risk communities.
Government Develops Contingency Plan For Floods And Natural Hazards During The 2024/2025 Rainy Season
Information Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere emphasised the government’s proactive approach after a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
“Cabinet advises that the Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan has been developed to prepare and adequately respond to a multiplicity of hazards,” Dr Muswere stated.
The plan, presented by Acting Cabinet Committee Chair Professor Amon Murwira, targets disasters that exceed the coping capacity of local communities. It also includes strategies for transboundary threats like epidemics, waterborne diseases, and crop pests.
Riverine flooding, particularly in vulnerable areas, is expected to peak between January and March 2025 due to high rainfall forecasts. Dr Muswere urged communities in flood-prone regions to remain vigilant as the government implements measures to mitigate risks.
ALSO READ: Over 90 Families Homeless As Floods Ravage Houses In Harare
The Fight Against Environmental Degradation
In addition to disaster preparedness, the government has reinforced its stance against environmental degradation. Following a ban on alluvial mining earlier this year, Lands and Agriculture Minister Dr Anxious Masuka reported significant progress in restoring damaged ecosystems.
“Statutory Instrument 188 of 2024 has introduced stiffer penalties for offenders, including the seizure of minerals, machinery, equipment, and vehicles,” Dr Muswere said.
A total of 344 arrests have been made to date under the new regulations.
The directive to prohibit riverbed mining, issued in August 2024, led to the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee tasked with enforcement. Dr Muswere confirmed the government’s commitment to protecting natural resources, stating that the ongoing rehabilitation of rivers is a national priority.
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