The news of the looting of aid for the victims of Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe is not only disheartening but a sign of wickedness. The Anti-Corruption Trust of Southern Africa (ACT-SA) learnt with shock the massive looting for personal gain by someone entities and individuals. This may demotivate a number of stakeholders who are extending their hands to help thousands of Zimbabweans who lost almost everything and are on the verge of starvation. Mr. David Jamali, the Chairperson of ACT-SA which campaigns against corruption in Southern Africa asked the Zimbabwean authorities to promptly investigate this matter and bring all those involved to book.
“Sometimes one might run out of words to explain how evil and inhuman some individuals can be. You can not imagine one stealing food and clothes meant for the people who are on the verge of starvation. Just imagine how donors feel when they hear that their support is not reaching intended beneficiaries. As a way forward, President Mnangagwa, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and the Anti-Corruption Unit in the Office of the President and other authorities must urgently investigate this matter to its logical conclusion and bring the culprits to book.” he says
Furthermore, Mr. Obert Chinhamo, the Director of ACT-SA highlighted that political parties should not be responsible for the distribution of aid.
“I don’t know who came up with the decision to allow political parties to distribute aid to victims of cyclone Idai. That’s a very bad decision. Political parties should not be anywhere near the distribution of aid. We want all victims to receive what they deserve without any discrimination whatsoever. That must be immediately stopped. All those involved must be named and shamed. Let humanitarian organisations and citizens who have the people at heart play this important role.” he adds
Several donors, including Zimbabweans are generously giving support to the victims of Cyclone Idai that killed, injured and left thousands homeless. Zimbabweans and Non-Zimbabweans from all corners of the world are giving assistance to these victims. Organisations and individuals came together, fundraised and donated various goods that include clothing, food, mattresses, and medicine, among others, to help the victims. Also friendly nations such South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, China, America, Britain and the United Arab Emirates among others responded positively, in keeping with the spirit of ubuntu. It is disheartening when some corrupt elements steal this aid for personal gain.
You are also welcome to read articles that exposed the rot.
Source: Anti-Corruption Trust of Southern Africa (ACT-Southern Africa)
