GRACE ZVENYIKA
HARARE-The cholera situation in poor urban communities in the country is getting worse by each day due to poor hygienic conditions caused by inconsistent water supply.
In that respect the Government has declared Mbare New Lines national state of emergency, paving the way for authorities to urgently disburse funds towards improving social amenities and service delivery.
The Midweek Watch crew witnessed sewage flowing into homes in the sprawling dormitory town of Chitungwiza recently as Council is battling to contain the spread of the deadly disease that can kill within days if not properly treated.
Council health officials who are not authorized to speak to the Press said the situation is worsened by lack of funds to combat the highly infectious disease.
Amid increasing cases, the Government called for a multi-sectoral approach and comprehensive cholera response to curb the disease, Jenfan Muswere, Acting Minister of information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services said during a post cabinet briefing this week.
“Zimbabwe has so far recorded 2 076 cases, with 1 942 recoveries and 15 deaths, representing a 2.3% fatality rate. All 10 provinces have now recorded cholera suspected cases,” Muswere said.
He went on to say that the country’s capital was among the three provinces that have contributed a combined 83 percent of the country’s cases to date, the other 2 are Manicaland and Matebeleland South provinces.
Muswere said in light of the continued rise in cases, the Cabinet has resolved that a multi sectoral approach to respond to the outbreak be continued with a focus on addressing water and sanitation and for the timely release of funds to fight the epidemic.
However, the cabinet has approved a budget of US$24 168 353 for the cholera epidemic preparedness and response plan.
So far,14 countries in Africa have reported cholera cases and it has now become a World Heath concern.
