Chiefs, headmen key in fight against COVID-19

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland North, Richard Moyo has said the engagement of chiefs and headmen is a crucial component of information dissemination in the fight against COVID-19.

Speaking during a radio programme on the state of preparedness of Matabeleland North, Moyo said at least seven isolation centres have been established in the province and information on Covid-19 is being shared with chiefs in different areas so that they cascade this information to villagers, in local lanaguages which include Tonga, Xhosa and Nambya. 

“There are seven isolation centres in Matabeleland North, two in Hwange one in each of the following areas Lupane, Bubi, Nkayi, Tsholotsho and Umguza. The isolation centre in Binga is under construction,” said Moyo.

Moyo said due to high tourist activity in Matabeleland North, the province is highly vulnerable. He said he is delighted by the response from tour operators and businesses in Victoria Falls who came together to gather what is needed in the various isolation centres.

“I am inviting all companies in Matabeleland North to contribute towards this cause. We have been circulating posters in the region to bridge the information gap in Matabeleland North and we are hopeful that translating these messages to local languages such as Nambya, Tonga and Xhosa will have an even greater impact,” said Moyo.

Moyo said the socio economic impact of Covid-19 is being felt by all businesses and particularly those in the tourism sector and informal traders.

“We are compiling data of young people in business, small businesses and hotels through the Ministry of Small and Medium Entreprises so that we are able to cushion them from this crisis,” said Moyo.

Moyo encouraged citizens to stay at home citing that government is currently doing its best to ensure equitable food distribution to citizens.