…as DMMU appeals for more humanitarian assistance for the affected countries
SIMON MUNTEMBA writes
@SunZambian
AS humanitarian assistance continues to pour in towards victims of tropical cyclone Idai that ravaged Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi, Zoona Zambia and Lamoz Fashions onThursday donated assorted items worth K20, 000 for disaster mitigation.
And Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) national coordinator Chanda Kabwe has assured the general public that all donations received will be channeled to the affected people.
Zoona Zambia and Lamoz donated 10 bags of 50 kg rice, clothes and 420 bottles of hand sanitizer to help alleviate the calamity.
Speaking when handing over the donations, Zoona’s head of marketing Kasali Kaingu said her organistion felt duty-bound to donate because it was saddened and touched at the plight that had befallen the neighboring countries.
Ms Kaingu who quoted ‘Valerie Amos’ said everyone can be humanitarian and all it takes was one act to help someone else.
“As Zoona, we strive to help communities thrive and at this time, our hearts and prayers go out to all communities affected by this cyclone,” Ms Kaingu said.
And speaking after she received the donations, Minister in the office of the vice President Sylvia Chalikosa said the donations will go a long way in alleviating the suffering of the communities in the three countries.
Ms Chalikosa who praised Zoona and Lamoz fashions for the donations said she was grateful for the donation on behalf of the Government stressing that a call had been made by President Edgar Lungu to show solidarity and offer humanitarian assistance to the affected countries.
“I therefore urge the business community and the general public at large to emulate the examples of companies who have already come on board to partner with government in assisting the three countries,” Ms Chalikosa said.
And Mr Kabwe explained that to ensure coordinated response, the office of the Vice President through DMMU has been charged with the responsibility to of receiving the donations for onward delivery to the affected countries.
Mr Kabwe however assured the general public that all donations received will be channeled to the intended beneficiaries.
“DMMU would like to assure the general public that all donations received will be channeled to the affected people,” he said.
Mr Kabwe announced that DMMU has opened Idai account number 5694790300150 ZANACO for those wishing to render help to the affected countries adding that they can also get in touch with DMMU at 25, Tito Road, Rhodespark or call 260256528/252692 for contributions.
Mr Kabwe warned the general public to be on a look out for conmen purporting to be representing DMM and report any suspicious by calling 909 0r 991 toll free lines.
