Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE has had its fair share of natural disasters over the years, ranging from droughts and floods to cyclones and epidemics.
Despite these challenges, the country has made significant strides in disaster management, thanks to the efforts of the Government and other stakeholders.
In response to these incidents, the Government has implemented various disaster management strategies to mitigate their impact and enhance resilience.
This has involved the crafting of disaster risk reduction plans and early warning systems that make everyone better prepare for and respond to disasters when they occur.
This explains why the country has remained calm in the face of Cyclone Chido, which is rapidly approaching Zimbabwe, and is expected to reach the country tomorrow, although with less devastating consequences since it would have lost speed.
But the speed of between 45km/h and 50km/h at which the cyclone is expected to hit the country is still a cause for concern, considering that the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has since warned of gusts of wind and heavy rainfall capable of causing some discomfort.
In recent years, the country has experienced devastating cyclones, Idai and Eline, resulting in loss of life, destruction of infrastructure and displacement of communities.
But in the face of Cyclone Chido, there seems to be a shift in approach towards more effective disaster preparedness and response, giving confidence to the affected communities that they can overcome the cylone’s effects.
Enough lessons have been learnt from previous cyclones to deal with future occurrences.
The Government is now implementing critical response strategies such as cyclone disaster prevention, management control and cyclone intelligence.
Early warning systems have been activated, resulting in a coordinated approach among governmental organisations to address the probable effects of the impending cyclone.
This is particularly necessary for Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Masvingo, Midlands and Harare provinces, which are expected to be the most affected areas.
With regard to Cyclone Chido, it is important that all is now in place
to minimise the effects of the phenomenon.
The MSD has played a crucial role in providing early warnings and updates on the cyclone’s path and intensity.
The department has been holding press conferences to update the nation on the course and likely nature of the cyclone.
This is part of the Government’s proactive measures to prepare for Cyclone Chido.
Warnings have been issued to communities in high-risk areas, with emergency response teams on standby.
On the other hand, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has been coordinating emergency response efforts, working closely with local authorities and other stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective response to the cyclone.
Equally crucial, the Government has been allocating sufficient resources to deal with disasters, including the pending cyclone.
The CPU has already revealed that Cabinet has led the way by approving a budget for national disaster management.
It is equally noteworthy that the CPU has since activated emergency response measures for Cyclone Chido, a sign that adequate preparations have been made to deal with the effects of the disaster.
This includes setting up evacuation points for vulnerable communities and relaying the necessary information to the people.
Cyclone Chido could cause significant flooding, leading to landslides.
This calls for people living in vulnerable areas to stay away from rivers for their safety. Additionally, they should not attempt to cross flooded rivers.
Disaster prevention during Cyclone Chido can only be effective if the communities work closely with emergency agencies and Government workers.
While the country’s disaster preparedness plays a vital role in mitigating the potential effects of the cyclone, communities have to play their part by being vigilant and proactive in their response.
Additionally, and following the advent of the Second Republic, the country’s disaster preparedness was strengthened to effectively cope with natural disasters like Cyclone Chido.
This entailed investing in early warning systems, improving infrastructure resilience and enhancing the capacity of emergency response agencies.
By bolstering its disaster preparedness efforts, Zimbabwe can now better protect its citizens and minimise the devastating impact of cyclones and other natural disasters.
As climate change continues to impact the country, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters like cyclones are expected to increase.
The Government must continue to prioritise disaster management and invest in measures that will enhance its resilience to natural disasters.
But there is no doubt that Zimbabwe has made significant progress in its disaster management efforts, thanks to the dedication of the Government and other stakeholders in the field.
No wonder the nation’s confidence that the effects of Cyclone Chido on communities will be mitigated.
Wenslus Murape
