SADC SUMMIT
Preparations for the SADC summit in August are progressing well, with various committees hard at work to ensure a successful event, said the government.
Speaking at a Post Cabinet Media Briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Minister of Information and Publicity Jenfan Muswere revealed that preparations for the SADC summit were progressing well.
“All hands are on deck across various ministries to ensure the country is ready for regional conference,” he said.
Furthermore, Minister Muswere, revealed that three inter-ministerial committees have been formed to oversee the preparations for the SADC summit.
“The Vice President, Honourable General (Rtd) Dr CGDN Chiwenga is coordinating the preparations for hosting the Summit.
“Accordingly, three inter-ministerial committees embracing all relevant ministries are in place.
“In addition, In terms of rehabilitation of main access roads, cabinet informs the nation that three main packages under this programme which are being undertaken are as follows, the Harare-Chirundu section from Julius Nyerere to Second street, Lomagundi road to Westgate traffic circle,” he said.
FOOD SECURITY
On the other hand, as the country is expecting a poor harvest from the summer cropping season, plans are being made to increase winter wheat production.
As a result, the government has set a target of planting 120 000 hectares of winter wheat.
“Accordingly, a total of 120 000 hectares have been targeted for wheat production during the 2024 winter cereal production season , compared to 90 912 hectares planted in 2023.
“Consequently, the total production is estimated at 624 000 metric tonnes against a national requirement of 360 000 metric tonnes annually,” he added.
In response to questions from the media, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka, said that plans have been put in place to ensure that winter wheat production is not impacted by power outages.
“There are ongoing discussion to ensure that power is available for the farmers,” he noted.
44th INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS
At the same time, Cabinet was given an update on the preparations for the country’s 44th Independence celebrations.
“Cabinet wishes to inform the nation that significant preparatory works for the 2024 Independence Anniversary Celebrations and children’s party have been undertaken on roads leading to the venues of the events,” said Dr Muswere.
ZIMBABWE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR
Ultimately, It was presented that 96% of the exhibition space at the upcoming ZITF in Bulawayo has already been booked.
“A total of 466 direct exhibitors have registered to participate as at 22 March 2024 with 65 exhibiting for the first time.
“Thus, 25 international exhibitors from 21 countries are taking part,” he stated.
Kenyan President, Dr William Ruto is expected to officially open the trade showcase.
CHOLERA UPDATES
As the country works to contain cholera, organisers of all gatherings must obtain clearance and be supervised by health authorities.
As a result, proper sanitation facilities were also cited as a pre requisite for gatherings to take place.
Finally, as Easter Church gatherings approach, the nation must remain vigilant to prevent the spread of cholera.
Story by Jeremiah Gora
