An Important Message from the Jafuta Foundation, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

An Important Message from the Jafuta Foundation, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (www.jafutafoundation.org/, www.facebook.com/JafutaFoundation/):

As a result of Covid-19, the entire economy of Victoria Falls has collapsed overnight. The 35,000 inhabitants of this tourist destination town have regularly faced significant challenges and have always done so with stoicism, dignity and a degree of fatalism. This is the first time it has faced starvation as a result of factors beyond it's control.

With virtually the entire town now unemployed, we estimate that from the end of April, most will be unable to feed themselves. We have formed a task force to try and address not only the virus, but the greater threat of famine. We have tried to alert all the major food agencies across the world, but their attention is understandably focused elsewhere for now.

Zimbabweans are resourceful and dynamic (we've had to be). The community has set up a Task Force to deal with the dual challenges of the virus (and raise funds for badly needed medical supplies via a go fund me page) – and this imminent secondary wave of catastrophe. The Famine task force has organised commercial kitchens, warehousing, transport, logistics and an army of volunteers. To date we have only secured 60 tonnes of rice and 35 tonnes of maize meal - which will feed no more than 1 200 people for one month. We are busy with setting up seedling nurseries, water access programs, and enabling rural communities surrounding us to plant vegetables. This program, whilst urgently needed, will only show any benefits in 2 – 3 months time at the earliest.

We urgently appeal for donations to allow us to procure emergency food supplies - £50 feeds a family of four for one month. We are playing for time and eventually we hope established food agencies will come in and relieve our needs - but it is nowhere in sight for now, and we are on our own.

Our task force and fundraising effort is supported by ALL the major operators and stakeholders in the town . All funds received will go to a registered foundation – the Jafuta Foundation (https://www.jafutafoundation.org) – a registered 501(c)3 in America and a registered foundation and operating in the Victoria Falls. 100% of any donations will go directly into buying food and there are no administration, distribution costs or hidden costs.

For internet donations, please go to https://www.jafutafoundation.org/donate or contact gcvj@mweb.co.za for USA bank details for a direct deposit.

On behalf of our beleaguered community, our heartfelt gratitude for any help that you may be able to give.

Appeal website: Victoria Falls Famine Appeal