Jonathan Moyo hands on, rises to the challenge faced by Tsholotsho

Professor Jonathan Moyo, the Higher Education Minister and MP for Tsholotsho, has risen to the challenge of saving his constituency, savaged by floods.

Moyo yesterday summoned the Zimbabwe National Army to a serious humanitarian assistance operation not experienced in Zimbabwe to date which roped in Moyo's close ally Saviour Kasukuwere.

543 people or 110 families were rescued by 11pm yesterday with some 100 or so people expected to be rescued today.

Yes 543 people or 110 families rescued by 11pm yesterday with some 100 or so people expected to be rescued today! https://t.co/5KxMyMUfrm

— Prof Jonathan Moyo (@ProfJNMoyo) February 21, 2017

Last night, the local CPU led by Tsholotsho District Ms Gladys Zhou said the rescue mission was still on course.

She said people were being airlifted to Sipepa Secondary School and Sipepa Health Centre.

"The helicopter has so far done eight trips and it's still continuing. We hope by the end of the night to have moved everyone to safety," she is quoted in some sections of the media.

Ms Zhou appealed for clothing and food for the affected villagers.

Chief Mathuphula described the situation as dire, but said he was happy with the swift CPU response.