Cyclone Idai victims to be exhumed in Mozambique

Cyclone Idai victims to be exhumed in Mozambique

Yvonne Mutambwa

Cyclone Idai victims who were temporarily buried in the Dombe, Sussundenga and Moussorize and Espungabeira districts of Mozambique will be repatriated to their families here in Zimbabwe, cabinet has heard.
These are among those who were swept away during the tragic events of March 2019.
The new development was presented by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable July Moyo.
Speaking at the 25th post-cabinet session, Minister of Information and Publicity, Monica Mutsvangwa said the process is being led by experts.
“A team of pathologist, the Zimbabwe Republic Police forensic officials, the Zimbabwe National Army and the Civil Registry was set up to carry out of the exhumations,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
Zimbabwe Ambassador to Mozambique, Ambassador Victor Matemadanda has been holding consultations with Mozambican officials and traditional leaders over modalities.
“The Traditional Leadership and the grace diggers were paid tokens of appreciation for assisting in the burial of the victims,” noted Minister Monica Mutsvangwa.
Government had made arrangements with Chomoio Provincial Hospital for the storage of the remains of the victims.
“DNA tests will be carried out in Zimbabwe by the National University of Science and Technology’s Applied Genetic Testing Centre in collaboration with the AiBST Laboratory,” added Minister Mutsvangwa.
Government has made arrangements for the remains to be transported and stored in Zimbabwe prior to the release of DNA results.
All positively identified remains be conveyed to Mutare General Hospital in order to reduce costs for grieving families.