Women and children in Mwenezi, Zimbabwe, are shouldering the burden of hunger as men leave for South Africa in search of better opportunities.
The district’s proximity to South Africa has led to a significant exodus of active men, leaving families without their primary breadwinners.
According to reports, this trend has raised concerns among government officials, including Mwenezi District Development Coordinator Isaac Mutambara. Mwenezi, a drought-prone area, relies heavily on agricultural production and livestock rearing for survival.
However, the lack of rainfall and scarce resources have forced men to seek employment in neighboring South Africa, often without returning to their families.
Consequences of Male Migration: – Increased poverty and hunger among women and children – Reduced agricultural productivity due to lack of labor
– Disrupted family structures and social support systems – Limited access to education and healthcare for vulnerable groups Efforts are being made to mitigate the effects of drought and support affected communities.
The World Food Programme (WFP) and its partners are working with the government to implement drought mitigation projects in Mwenezi.
However, addressing the root causes of male migration and supporting left-behind families remains a significant challenge.
Initiatives for Left-Behind Families:
– Climate-smart agriculture training for women and youth
– Livestock management programs to enhance food security
– Vocational skills training for economic empowerment
– Social protection programs to support vulnerable groups
By addressing the needs of left-behind families and promoting sustainable livelihoods, Mwenezi can work towards reducing the burden of hunger and improving the well-being of its most vulnerable residents.
