Government, WFP Partnership Strengthens Disaster Preparedness Systems

The Department of Civil Protection (DCP), operating under the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, has strengthened its disaster response capabilities following the donation of a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado from the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

The vehicle was officially handed over in Harare, where WFP Country Director and Representative Ms Barbara Clemens presented it to Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon A. Mavunga.

Addressing attendees at the handover ceremony, Hon. Mavunga described the donation as both timely and impactful in enhancing the country’s disaster management systems.

“It is my distinct honour and privilege to witness this important milestone in strengthening Zimbabwe’s disaster preparedness and response capacity.

This timely contribution speaks directly to our shared commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods and national development gains in the face of increasing disaster risks,” Hon Mavunga said.

Zimbabwe continues to experience various natural disasters, including floods and droughts, which demand effective coordination and adequate resources.

Hon. Mavunga noted that the support comes at a crucial time as the Government intensifies efforts to strengthen resilience and protect vulnerable communities.

“This donation is not only a contribution to disaster response, but also a strategic investment aligned with Zimbabwe’s national and global development aspirations.

As we pursue Vision 2030, disaster risk management remains a critical pillar in protecting development gains and ensuring sustainable economic growth,” he said.

He added that the new vehicle will play a key role in improving the DCP’s ability to operate efficiently, especially in remote and high-risk areas.

“Mobility is a critical component of effective disaster risk management. This vehicle will enhance rapid response, coordination and access to affected communities, enabling timely assessments and life-saving interventions,” Minister stated.

WFP Country Director and Representative Ms Barbara Clemens, said the donation was based on needs identified on the ground.

“Today’s vehicle donation directly responds to needs identified by the DCP, including the requirement for enhanced mobility to reach hazard-prone and hard-to-access areas across the country,” she said.

She reiterated WFP’s continued support to Zimbabwe, highlighting efforts that go beyond immediate humanitarian aid to include long-term resilience-building initiatives such as anticipatory action programmes that boost community preparedness and agricultural productivity.

The donation is in line with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (2026–2030), which emphasises resilience, climate adaptation and strengthening institutional capacity.

It also contributes to global targets under the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on climate action and sustainable communities.

Hon. Mavunga reaffirmed Government’s commitment to ensuring the vehicle is used effectively to strengthen national disaster response systems.

“This gesture demonstrates the strength of the partnership between the Government of Zimbabwe and the World Food Programme.

It is through such collaborations that we are able to build a more resilient nation, capable of anticipating, preparing for and effectively responding to disasters,” Minister Mavunga concluded.

The Department of Civil Protection remains central to coordinating disaster risk management in Zimbabwe, and this latest addition supports ongoing efforts to better equip the country to respond to climate-related and other emergencies.