Eighty-two people have so far been confirmed dead across the country, and a lot of infrastructure damaged in Chimanimani and Chipinge, following a trail of destruction left by Cyclone Idai in the country.

A team of government ministers and officials are currently in Manicaland province, assessing the extent of the damage, and how much help can be given to the affected areas. 

The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Cde  Sekai Nzenza who is part of the delegation said they have an a enormous task ahead to help all communities and families affected by the cyclone with humanitarian assistance.

She thanked some corporates who also chipped in to help in the disaster.

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Cde Joel Biggie Matiza, who is also there, says they are analysing some routes that they can quickly work on so as to access some areas that needs argent attention.

Cde Matiza cited the Charter-Machongwe-Nyahode Bridge as one that needs urgent attention.

The Acting Minister of Defence Retired Air Chief Marshal Perrance Shiri said they have called in all army engineers from across the country to help in the situation.

He said they are also areas where the army has abandoned their vehicles and is going on foot in order to give urgent medical attention to affected families.

Retired Air Chief Marshal Shiri he said the work of clearing roads is also still ongoing.

Chimanimani East Member of the National Assembly Cde Joshua Sacco said it is sad to note that the province has lost so many lives due to the cyclone.

Manicaland Provincial Meteorological Officer Mr Lucas Murambi said though it’s sad to note that lives have been lost, it is good know that the cyclone has since subsided.