GWANDA – THE right to food is for everyone as it is central to life, dignity and
humanity.
Without access to food, citizens are subjected to stress, malnutrition, diseases and
they cannot participate meaningfully in civic process in developing their communities.
Some politicians have a tendency of politicising food aid in order to increase their
political mileage and significance. However, Gwanda South MP, Omphile Marupi,
said that should stop with immediate effect because food is not supposed to be
distributed on political party lines but every citizen must benefit from Government
initiated programmes.
Addressing mourners during the burial of a 115-year old granny at Zhogwe Village in
Ward 13 under Chief Mathe area recently, the MP said his visibility before elections
was not only for campaigns but sought to know and understand the people’s needs
hence his presence at local gatherings and funerals.
“This Government is for all Zimbabweans, hence politicians and traditional leaders
and non-government organisations have no right whatsoever to discriminate against
people on partisan lines when it comes to social welfare food aid.
“Once elected into office, you serve everyone equally regardless of their political
affiliation,” said MP Marupi.
He added that as office bearers they should not only be visible when canvassing for
votes, but must always be with the people.
“I urge you to always notify us of such situations because without your information,
we are unable to know what is happening within our constituencies. We are your
servants.
“As an individual, I do not discriminate. People have the right to choose where to
affiliate, just as in churches. How many churches do we have?
“The bottom is line is that we all belong to one Creator.
“My office is mobile, so do not be afraid to stop me and tell be your challenges
because in English they say a problem shared is problem solved,” said MP Marupi.
He added that as new office bearers, they come in with the speed of a Concorde
aeroplane.
“At times being fast in tackling issues can help although at times it might not. So, as
humans always tell us where we do wrong,” he said.
Gwanda South District lies in the drought-prone Region 5 and people’s livelihoods
depend on livestock compared to cropping.
Serious food insecurity and hunger has over the year’s affected Gwanda District due
to low rainfall and poor soils, which leave rural households with limited alternative
livelihood opportunities.
The production of traditional grains, such as sorghum, pearl millet and rapoko can
effectively address food insecurity in the district and other areas with similar climate
conditions.
