Food security under severe threat in Buhera

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By Marlvin Ngiza

Residents in Buhera are faced with food insecurity due to price hikes, adverse climatic conditions, and poor road networks.

In a statement released to mark Africa Day yesterday, Buhera Residents Network Trust coordinator Leonard Mabasa said current price hikes of basic commodities have seen residents failing to have nutritional meals.

A bucket of maize is pegged at $8usd which is a thorn to many residents.

“The recent hikes of USD and local currency for basic commodities like cooking oil, sugar, maize, and beans among others is a threat to food security and nutrition.

“A bucket of maize is now costing $6,50 to $8 charged in foreign currency,” said Mabasa

He further attributed food insecurity to transport challenges.

“As residents attempt to stock enough food reserves, the transport costs impact logistics. We continue to put to light the state of Murambinda-Birchenough Bridge  Road which needs maintenance and the anticipated road tarmac. The road facilitates smooth flow of food items from the source into the community,” added Mabasa

Meanwhile, Mabasa highlighted that some families are getting food relief from relatives in the diaspora.

“Sometimes diasporans send food items via different routes which is a good move towards challenging food insecurity in the community,” said Mabasa

Buhera has this year witnessed low yields due to low rains received in the 2021/2022 season.