Update leads:
- COVID 19 confirmed cases increase
- The Bond notes, Bond coins confusion: who is to blame?
COVID 19 CONFIRMED CASES INCREASE…
While lockdown restriction regulations are being relaxed by the government allowing the majority of citizens to gradually return to their ‘usual’ daily activities, the number of COVID-19 confirmed positive cases continue to increase in Zimbabwe. The increasing number of returning citizens escaping quarantine centers has put Mat-South citizens on panic mode, with the fear of possible Covid-19 transmissions in local communities since some returnees come in through the province using undesignated entries.
As of 26 June 2020, Zimbabwe has recorded a total of 561 COVID-19 positive cases, 135 recoveries and 6 deaths. This leaves a total of 417 active cases. Observations show that the initial fear that gripped the general populace when the pandemic first reached Zimbabwe has now subsided. The people’s attitude towards the pandemic has changed and they are seemingly embracing the Covid-19 as the ‘New Normal’. This attitude comes with its share of risks considering that some citizens are now lacking adherence to preventive measures such as putting on face masks particularly in Beitbridge, this is despite the call by the Ministry of Health and the enforcement by the state of arms on use of face masks. Social distancing also remains a challenge particularly in rural areas and in funerals.
The shortages of basic commodities have led to thousands of breadwinners leaving their homes to hustle and search for means to fend for their families. While the number of recoveries also continues to increase, it is important that people protect themselves from the pandemic when carrying out their daily activities. Organizations and relevant government practitioners must continue to remind people that the virus is still present and dangerous by doing more awareness-raising programs on the pandemic.
THE BOND NOTES SAGA: WHO IS TO BLAME?
Citizens received the shock of their lives when various shops in Gwanda urban and rural refused to take bond notes and coins during the week, big supermarkets were also rejecting the bond notes. This has caused panic amongst citizens who fear for their savings. It is worrying that even after a press statement by the Reserve Bank Governor to the effect that Bond coins and notes were still regarded as legal tender, retailers continue to refuse to accept this money. This has also left the majority poverty stricken populace at the mercy of scrupulous business people who are now demanding foreign currency, mobile money and swipe as modes of payment. Young people call upon the government to give deterring penalties to retailers that refuse to accept bond coins and bond notes. The threats of jail time seem not enough.
Citizens commend the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe for warning wholesalers and shops refusing bond notes and coins that it will stop supplying them with its products. Such action is commendable as it can prevent shop owners from refusing bond notes and coins which is putting citizens in a difficult situation. It is ironic that the shop owners who are refusing bond notes and coins are using the same coins and notes to buy products from vendors.
In addition, the recent introduction of the US$ auction has caused so much panic and uncertainty to the business community hence the prize system change twice a day in many retail outlets. This points out to the fact that if no measures are taken the country will soon revert to 2008 where the local currency was rendered useless.
THE CASE OF BURGLAR CRIMES: TIME FOR THE ZRP TO ACT
In light of the reported burglar cases in Plumtree, it is pivotal that the police stand true to their organizational mission. The mission of the Zimbabwe Republic Police reads “to maintain law and order, protect and secure the lives and property of the people…” Therefore, it is critical to note that the police are failing to adhere to this call and hence citizens feel unsafe and are living in fear of their lives and valuable possessions due to these burglars and the police are letting these victims down by not making effort to arrest the offenders.
Burglary cases are usually taken lightly by security forces as these law breakers are not held accountable. The already suffering citizens are further exposed to hunger when thieves steal food and other valuables
AWARENESS PROGRAMS VERY ESSENTIAL
As lockdown restrictions are being relaxed and human traffic within cities and towns increase, Mat-South young people call upon the authorities to strengthen its public awareness programs for the benefit of the community. It is important to maintain the momentum in messaging and reminding the citizens of their responsibilities in the fight against the pandemic. Awareness raising campaigns on the COVID-19 preventative measures are still critical especially at a time when Mat-South has recorded many cases from returning residents and also the increasing use of undesignated ports of entry.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY
The government made efforts to cushion young people and informal traders whose businesses were severely affected by the lockdown process. It is sad to note that the promise is still yet to be fulfilled despite its urgency. A Random sample by the organisation revealed that majority of the youths who are in the informal sector are yet to receive their promises from the government although they have no information on how far the process has gone. There is need for constant feedback and updates to the would be beneficiaries so as to ensure transparency of the process. Youths are still holding on to the net-one lines they were given by the social welfare department a month ago.
It is imperative to also note that although the youth are usually considered to be the able bodied; they are the most affected especially in rural areas. Government is therefore taking too long to bail out the youths whose source of income was greatly affected by the lockdown and there is also need for clarity on information on when these safety nets will be availed.
Remember to follow these tips proposed by the WHO to prevent getting infected with COVID-19;
- clean your hands more often using alcohol based hand rub or soap and water
- Maintain social distancing
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
- Contact emergency COVID-19 numbers near you, if experiencing any symptoms related to the pandemic
Social Distancing Tips
- Shop alone, do not shop in groups
- Stay/Stand two metres away from other customers (especially in mealie meal queues)
TOGETHER WE CAN DEFEAT COVID-19!
Dial 2019 if suspecting any COVID-19 Symptoms!
STAY SAFE!!!!!!!!!!
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