Support to Vulnerable Populations in Zimbabwe - IOM 2009

The people of Zimbabwe are coping with the impacts of an unprecedented cholera outbreak the world's highest inflation rate and one of the world's lowest life expectancies. Over 5 million people are in need of food assistance. Another year of erratic weather is anticipated in 2009 which combined with the failure to procure and adequately distribute seed stock is expected to lead to another failed harvest. Unemployment is estimated at 80 percent in Zimbabwe which also has one of the world's highest rates of HIV/AIDS. CIDA's contribution is supporting the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to identify the most vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe and provide them with emergency humanitarian assistance. Activities include performing vulnerability assessments; providing emergency food assistance; distributing non-food items; helping to improve access to shelter water and sanitation facilities; and supporting the needs of those affected by HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence.