Minister Garwe Says US$100 Million Needed To Protect Communities From Floods

Around 250,000 people in Zimbabwe, along with 1,000 schools and more than 5,000 households, are at risk of flooding and flash floods during the 2025/26 rainy season.

Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe revealed the figures while presenting the Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan to Cabinet last week.

Garwe said the most vulnerable include people with disabilities, who will need targeted support. He added that almost US$100 million is needed to fund key preventative measures and provide essential relief to communities at risk. Said Garwe:

“The projected normal to above-normal rainfall is likely to influence heavy precipitation affecting the country, especially from December 2025 through to February 2026, bringing hazards associated with the season highlighted earlier.”

Garwe warned that moderate to strong localised winds could cause serious damage to schools, health facilities, crops and livelihoods.

Between 5,000 and 15,000 households, including those headed by the elderly, people with disabilities, child-headed families and orphans, could be affected. More than 1,000 schools could be damaged, impacting over 20,000 learners.

Garwe also said cyclone-induced flooding and flash floods are expected to affect at least 250,000 people.

Poor road and bridge conditions in rural areas may delay relief efforts and leave communities more vulnerable.

He urged the Treasury to release part of the funding for the Multi-Hazards Contingency Plan, which has a projected cost of just over US$96 million. The funding will support operational planning and early recovery efforts across all sectors.

More: Chronicle

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