in an objective manner, according to these principles, to improve the food consumption of
those in greatest need, without bias or prejudice.
Basic principles
ZPP and partners recommend that food distribution in Zimbabwe must be based on a
platform of ethical principles that derive from international humanitarian law:
The right to life with dignity and the duty not to withhold or frustrate the provision of
life saving assistance;
The obligation of states and other parties to agree to the provision of humanitarian
and impartial assistance when the civilian population lacks essential supplies;
Relief not to bring unintended advantage to one or more parties nor to further any
partisan position;
The management and distribution of food and other relief to be based purely on
criteria of need and not on partisan grounds, and without adverse distinction of any
kind;
Respect for community values of solidarity, dignity and peace and of community
culture.
Minimum Standards for Food Distribution
Key Considerations: That distribution of food aid be Responsive, Transparent, Equitable
and Appropriate, in addition to following specific suggested minimum standards Recipients of food aid are identified and targeted based on need by means of an
assessment carried out through consultation with stakeholders including the
beneficiaries
Registration of households receiving aid should be formalised, transparent and all
inclusive paying particular attention to vulnerability. Women who head families or
are single; as well as children from child-headed families should be allowed to
register in their own right.
Selection of distribution agents should be based on their impartiality, capacity and
accountability. May include local elders, local NGOs or other institutions .e.g.
Agritex, and churches who may then form locally elected relief committees at
ward or village level
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