Zimbabwean humanitarian organizations struggling to deliver food aid to millions of hungry people on Friday welcomed the news that the European Union has pledged 15 million Euros (US$20 million) to the country under an broader African relief package.
But in the western Matabeleland region the news from Brussels joined reports from Lupane, Matabeleland North province, that three people had succumbed to malnutrition, while in another location three children died after eating poisonous roots
Chief Executive Officer Josephat Amuli of the Churches In Bulawayo, a faith-based relief group, said the EU donation is welcome but far greater resources will be required.
His organization is feeding around 4,000 people in Lupane, Matopos and Nkayi.
Amuli told reporter Patience Rusere of VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe that while a government ban imposed between June and August on food distribution by non-governmental organizations has been lifted, aid organizations still must obtain authorizations from local officials.
More reports from VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe...
