Kadoma Flood Evacuees Return Home as Government Pl...

Kadoma Flood Evacuees Return Home as Government Plans Permanent Relocation

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

Over 160 individuals who were temporarily housed at the Venice Farm Holding Camp in Kadoma have returned to their homes following the receding flood risk. The families were evacuated in February as a precautionary measure due to persistent heavy rains during the 2024/25 rainfall season and concerns about a potential dam breach.

Speaking at a handover ceremony on Friday where food hampers were distributed to the returning families, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavunga, stated that while the families were now able to go back to their residences, the government has plans in place to permanently resettle them on higher, flood-resistant ground. The donated food hampers are intended to support the families as they reintegrate into their communities.

Deputy Minister Mavunga emphasized that the initial evacuation was conducted in accordance with the Civil Protection Act, which prioritizes the preservation of life and property. He noted that the temporary camp at Venice Farm provided essential services, including shelter, water, security, food, and non-food items, to the 162 displaced individuals, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the government and its partners.

"This intervention allowed us to safeguard lives and minimize disruption to the lives of these citizens," said Deputy Minister Mavunga. "We are particularly pleased that the temporary relocation did not negatively impact the education of learners, as it was managed within the local area."

He commended the affected community for their peaceful co-existence during their time at the temporary camp, highlighting the absence of reported cases of gender-based violence, child abuse, and substance abuse. He expressed hope that this spirit of unity would continue within the community.

Furthermore, Deputy Minister Mavunga announced that the government is developing a comprehensive dam maintenance program, with the Venice dam being one of the priority structures to receive attention.

"As we progress towards Vision 2030, our goal of an empowered, upper middle-income society, we remain committed to the President's vision of leaving no one and no place behind," he concluded.