October MMR
PROVINCIAL OUTLOOK
Harare
22 human rights abuses were documented in Harare Province. Notably, there were widespread incidents
relating to restriction of social services such as water and health care services. In Glenview, residents are
facing extortion and sexual exploitation to fetch water from boreholes, with those in power exploiting their
influence. These incidents highlight the alarming politicisation of community development projects, including
access to basic necessities like water. Meanwhile, in Epworth, expecting mothers are being forced to pay
bribes to access essential healthcare services further perpetuating inequalities among the struggling
communities. A disturbing case of torture has been reported in Mabvuku-Tafara, where a male victim was
arrested and detained for over 24 hours at Mabvuku Police station for allegedly shouting derogatory
statements against President Mnangagwa, sparked by frustration over failure to get a job at a cement
manufacturing plant. In Seke, the distribution of agricultural inputs under the Pfumvudza scheme has been
tainted by politics, with opposition members systematically excluded. This not only undermines the integrity of
the program but also deprives vulnerable communities of critical support. These incidents underscore the need
for urgent reforms to ensure accountability, transparency, and equal access to resources and services,
regardless of political affiliation
Bulawayo
Bulawayo Province has faced significant challenges in October, with six documented human rights violations
amidst high levels of food insecurity and limited access to water. The province's vulnerability to El Nino-induced
drought has prompted the Department of Social Services to implement the Cash-for-Cereals program in
wards 11-16. However, beneficiaries have expressed frustration with receiving ZiG, a currency not widely
accepted by service providers. Furthermore, the exclusion of Econet line users has forced potential
beneficiaries to open separate lines, highlighting systemic issues. This situation undermines efforts to support
vulnerable families, emphasising the need for the Department of Social Development to address these
challenges and ensure assistance reaches those in need. The World Bank has also reported similar concerns
globally, with rising food insecurity affecting 713 million to 757 million people, and domestic food price inflation
remaining high in many low- and middle-income countries. Effective solutions require a coordinated approach
to address the root causes of food insecurity and ensure equitable access to essential services
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
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