We are deeply concerned at the current humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe. With more than 3,800 cholera-related deaths so far and over 80,000 people infected, this outbreak, alongside a major food shortage, an economic collapse and a lack of essential utilities and services, is the direct consequence of Robert Mugabe’s mismanagement. The political situation must not deflect attention away from this.

Zimbabwe, once known as ‘The Breadbasket of Africa’, has had the worst crop in fifteen years and has failed to produce sufficient grain to meet the needs of its people. The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that over 6 million people are in need of food aid. In addition, the impact of HIV and AIDS means that families who are already poor and vulnerable will be less able to deal with such problems.

• Monthly inflation is off the scale.
• The Zimbabwean Dollar is virtually obsolete.
• Prices are doubling every two to four days.
• GDP has fallen from US$8 billion in 1998 to US$4 billion today.
• External debt us US$5 billion
• Zimbabwe cannot receive loans from the IMF or World Bank because of its failure to repay arrears to both institutions.
• Agricultural production has shrunk by over 50% since 1996 and there will be no commercial grain crop in 2009.
• The private sector is now in full retreat with the final skilled exodus gathering.
• Gold production is at lowest levels for 90 years.
• Electricity is severely restricted, blackouts are common and water shortages last for days at a time in some areas.
• Basic food and fuel are difficult are difficult to obtain, with people turning to the black market where the prices are too high for many.
• Unemployment is reported to be 94%.
• Public health and education sectors are collapsing.
• Life expectancy is down to 37 for men and 34 for women. This is the lowest in the world.
  

The failure of Robert Mugabe to honour the will of his people has been at the heart of Zimbabwe’s crisis. With the appointment of Morgan Tsvangirai as Prime Minister, he and his team need to be given the room to lead change, not least from ZANU(PF) and its leadership.

The UK is one of the world’s largest donors of aid to Zimbabwe, giving £45 million last year. This aid is channelled through the UN and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and not the Zimbabwean government. All of this support is aimed at meeting the essential needs of the people of Zimbabwe, in terms of medical assistance, food and other important areas.