Govt Moves to Avert Cholera Epidemic… Sets Aside US$24m Kitty
Yvonne Mutambwa
HARARE- A financial plan of at least US$24 168 353 has been set aside for the cholera epidemic preparedness and response plan for Zimbabwe.
The latest development comes at a time Zimbabwe has registered cholera related deaths and hundreds of suspected cases.
Addressing the nation during a post cabinet brief yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said Cabinet was informed that cholera cases in Africa were being pushed up by cyclones, floods, conflicts, poor sanitation and unreliable water supplies.
Zimbabwe has largely succeeded in containing cholera since the outbreak with suspected cases standing at 231, against 209 recoveries and two deaths.
Cases have so far been reported in Matabeleland North and Midlands provinces.
“Cabinet wishes to assure the nation that the cholera situation is under control,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
“Active screening at ports of entry and exit has been initiated, and surveillance activities are ongoing. Cabinet approved a total budget of US$24 168 353 for the cholera epidemic preparedness and response plan.
“Several partners including the World Health Organisation, the Centre for Disease Control, UNICEF, Medicines sans Frontiers and Higher Life Foundation have pledged to support part of the budget.”
Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution and their teams have been urged to continue to support activities to fight the cholera outbreak.
South Africa, Zambia and Tanzania have been hard hit by cholera and up to 13 countries including Zimbabwe have reported cases.
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