Humanitarian response and development are vital in fostering recovery, healing, and resilience in communities impacted by disasters. The aftermath of Cyclone Idai in the Chimanimani district of Zimbabwe presented significant challenges that overwhelmed the local government’s capacity, necessitating intervention from international and local non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

A research study funded by the NRF explored the obstacles that hindered humanitarian efforts following Cyclone Idai, intending to improve future disaster response strategies. The researchers employed a qualitative approach with an exploratory design, collecting data through semi-structured interviews with representatives from 11 humanitarian organizations.

The study found that stringent bureaucratic procedures imposed by the Zimbabwean government delayed the deployment of humanitarian aid. NGOs had to undergo rigorous vetting processes, which created confusion and hampered timely intervention. Extensive flooding and infrastructure damage, including destroyed roads and bridges, made it difficult for aid organizations to reach affected communities. Communication disruptions further complicated coordination efforts. Additionally, disaster response was largely controlled by the military, leading to issues such as lack of transparency, human rights abuses, and the politicization of aid.

Political affiliations influenced the distribution of aid, with supporters of the opposition party often being deprived of assistance. The lack of coordination among various humanitarian organizations resulted in overlapping services and neglected areas of need, such as mental health support and trauma counselling. Many organizations were unprepared for the severity of Cyclone Idai, with limited resources and inadequate disaster management experience among staff hindering effective response efforts.

The study concludes that the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai were both structural and logistical. Addressing these issues is essential for improving disaster management and response in Zimbabwe, a country highly vulnerable to climate change-induced disasters.

 The study recommended that :

• The government should shift disaster response planning and implementation to civilian authorities, reducing reliance on the military.
• The government should recognize NGOs as partners in disaster management rather than as adversaries, fostering better cooperation and support.
• Humanitarian organizations should regularly update their disaster risk reduction strategies and equip staff with necessary skills.
• Both the government and NGOs should allocate more funds for environmental awareness and protection programs.
• Improved horizontal and vertical coordination among humanitarian actors is needed to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure comprehensive disaster response.

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