Zimbabwe Grapples with Mounting Crises Amid Resilience-Building Efforts

Clive Tatenda Makumbe in Zimbabwe

As Zimbabwe battles overlapping humanitarian challenges, ranging from an El Niño-induced drought to economic instability, key stakeholders are ramping up efforts to alleviate suffering and build long-term resilience.

A blend of international aid, government initiatives, and community-driven strategies aims to address the cascading effects of climate shocks, public health emergencies, and socio-economic struggles.

The ongoing El Niño event has exacerbated Zimbabwe’s already precarious food security situation. With the 2024 maize harvest estimated at 60% below the ten-year average, approximately 7.6 million people, including 3.5 million children, are projected to face food insecurity by year’s end.

The drought has devastated livelihoods, with failed crops and depleted water sources heightening the risks of malnutrition and disease.

To combat this crisis, USAID, in collaboration with local organizations, has extended significant support. Programs focus on building climate resilience through initiatives such as borehole rehabilitation, climate-smart agriculture, and nutrition gardens. These efforts have benefited thousands, particularly in rural districts such as Masvingo and Matabeleland South.

Public Health Challenges

Simultaneously, the country is grappling with public health emergencies, including a prolonged cholera outbreak and the resurgence of polio.

Over 34,500 cholera cases have been reported across Zimbabwe since October 2023, claiming more than 700 lives.

The outbreak, compounded by inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, highlights the urgent need for systemic improvements in public health systems.

The polio outbreak has further strained healthcare resources, with vaccination campaigns underway to protect nearly half a million children under the age of 10.

These initiatives, supported by UNICEF and WHO, also include education campaigns to enhance community awareness about disease prevention.

Strengthening Gender Equality in Disaster Management

In an innovative approach to disaster resilience, Zimbabwe is leading efforts to integrate gender considerations into disaster risk management (DRM).

The African Risk Capacity (ARC), alongside the government, recently engaged traditional leaders in Mount Darwin to evaluate progress in gender mainstreaming.

This initiative aims to empower women and girls, who disproportionately bear the brunt of disasters, by ensuring their active participation in disaster preparedness and response strategies.

“This initiative not only fosters gender equality but also strengthens community resilience,” said ARC’s Head of Gender Unit, Christina George.

Traditional leaders pledged to continue advocating for gender inclusivity, aligning with the national vision for equitable disaster responses.

International Aid and Collaborative Efforts

Humanitarian organizations have been instrumental in addressing Zimbabwe’s crises. UNICEF, for instance, has delivered lifesaving interventions across sectors such as nutrition, health, and education.

Between January and June 2024, the agency provided safe drinking water to nearly 250,000 people, distributed hygiene kits to 183,000 individuals, and supported malnutrition treatment for over 4,000 children.

The United Nations launched a $429.3 million inter-agency flash appeal to address urgent needs, including food assistance, health services, and water supply restoration.

However, only a fraction of the required funds has been secured, underscoring the persistent funding gaps faced by humanitarian actors.

Resilience-Building at the Grassroots

Local efforts have also made strides in resilience-building. Projects focusing on climate-smart agriculture, WASH infrastructure, and nutrition support are helping communities adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.

For example, the Mwenezi Development Training Center has successfully rehabilitated water points, benefiting over 8,600 people.

Additionally, care groups supported by UNICEF have integrated agricultural and hygiene education, fostering a holistic approach to combating malnutrition in vulnerable districts.

These programs empower communities with practical tools to enhance food security and health outcomes.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these efforts, the road to recovery remains steep. Water scarcity continues to drive the spread of diarrheal diseases, while the economic crisis limits household purchasing power, compounding vulnerabilities.

Malnutrition rates are rising, with wasting among children under five increasing to 5.6% in 2024, the highest in over a decade.

Moreover, gender-based violence remains a critical concern, particularly as women and girls face heightened risks in the wake of drought and displacement. Initiatives addressing these issues must expand to ensure comprehensive support for affected populations.

A Call to Action

As Zimbabwe navigates this complex crisis, stakeholders emphasize the need for sustained international support and innovative local solutions.

Addressing immediate humanitarian needs while building long-term resilience will require coordinated efforts across all sectors.

“The resilience of Zimbabwe’s communities is remarkable, but they cannot face these challenges alone,” said a UNICEF spokesperson.

“We must act collectively to ensure that no one is left behind.”

With collaborative action and adequate funding, there is hope that Zimbabwe can emerge stronger, with more resilient systems to weather future crises.