By Talent Gondo|The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned of a possible influx of Mozambican refugees in Zimbabwe following indications that there are already over 6 000 refugees camped at the buffer zone between the two countries waiting to be relocated to Tongogara Camp in Chipinge.

The WFP reports that the number of refugees who have entered Zimbabwe increased in 2017 due to violent clashes between the Mozambican government forces and Renamo.

Reports also indicate that there is renewed insecurity in the Kasai Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a development which could also increase the number of refugees in the country.

WFP Country Director, Eddie Rowe revealed that the country could experience serious health challenges due to the influx of refugees adding that there is need to ensure targeted interventions to redress this challenge.

Rowe said this while responding to questions during an event to mark one year of progress under the WFP Zimbabwe’s five-year strategic plan in Harare (Monday).

“If nothing is done, the situation could lead to serious health problems ranging from malnutrition due to food shortages and water and sanitation-related diseases,” he said.

“Tongogara refugee camp may not be able to handle the increased number of refugees,” he said.