From WEEKLY NEWS 09/00
Mozambique's neighbours are also suffering
from widespread flooding. Funds from the International Federation's revised
appeal for southern Africa will provide food and shelter for 20,000 beneficiaries
in eastern and southern Zimbabwe. A state of emergency has been declared
in Manicaland, Masvingo and Matabeleland South provinces. The Zimbabwe
Red Cross Society (ZRCS) has mobilized volunteers to take relief goods
into areas which can still be reached by road. But with heavy rains continuing,
the situation is set to deteriorate. There is a risk of an outbreak
of cholera and other water borne diseases and the ZRCS is conducting health
education campaigns. There is also an urgent need for tents, plastic sheeting,
blankets, clean water and sanitation facilities. In Botswana, the
situation is worst in the Francistown, Botei and southern districts. The
Botswana Red Cross Society, with help from the Federation, is providing
shelter, blankets and health services to some 20,000 homeless people. The
German Red Cross has sent significant supplies of tents and blankets as
well as a delegate. In Swaziland, some 250,000 people have been affected
by flooding and the Federation will help the Baphalali Swaziland Red Cross
Society provide up to 10,000 beneficiaries with similar aid.
WEEKLY NEWS IS PUBLISHED BY THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF RED CROSS AND RED CRESCENT SOCIETIES
17 Chemin des Crêts, Geneva
Tel: (41 22) 730 4222
Fax: (41 22) 733 0395
E-mail: weeklynews@ifrc.org