(Last Updated on September 23, 2020 by Editor)
… as cabinet also approves budget for localised production of registration plates
HARARE – Cabinet on Tuesday agreed that schools should now start fully reopening for all classes which will be done in three phases starting with the first phase set for examination classes ( grade 7, form 4 and 6) who are set to resume on 28 September.
Phase 2 will be on 26 October and will cover grade 6, form 3 and 5 while phase 3 will be for the rest of the learners which is set for 9 November.
“Most Districts are reporting improved levels of preparedness by schools.”
Progess has been made on the comprehensive logistical plan with the supply and distribution of PPE, hygiene kits, disinfectants and infrared thermometers to all public schools. ZUPCO buses will also be availed to ferry learners for examinations
The decision was made after the Cabinet received a report from Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri updating on the steps being taken to contain Covid-19 spread. Muchinguri is also the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Inter-Ministerial Task Force on the Covid-19 Outbreak.
Cabinet was also updated on a model exercise on the current Covid-19 data by the Experts Advisory Committee which highlighted that the Zimbabwe epidemic had not peaked as previously predicted due to control measures put in place. The Committee also concluded that the decrease in new infections was an indication that the epidemic was coming under control.
However, Cabinet also emphasised that the public should remain vigilant and adhere to the containment measures put in place as the threat still exists.
Churches have also been allowed to host 100 people an increase from the previously set 50. However Covid-19 regulations such as wearing of face masks, washing hands and practising social distance are still to be strictly adhered to.
Cabinet also in it’s post media briefing announced that it has approved a US$1 million budget for the setting up of a plant that will result in the local production of number plates.
“The project aims to ensure industrial scale manufacturing of number plates and enable citizens to access the same at affordable cost.”
“The selling price of one registration plate will be significantly reduced from the current US$80.35 to US$45.61.”
Cabinet also approved the Vulnerability Assessment Committee (ZIMVAC) 2020 Rural Livelihoods Assessment Report from the Cabinet Committee on Food Security and Nutrition headed by Vice president, Chiwenga.
The report noted that through a combination of government and Development Partners, food aid has continued to be distributed to those districts deemed vulnerable by the ZIMVAC.
Government has also put in active response to the prevailing food and nutrition insecurity among rural livelihoods.
There has been an increase in support from 73% to 76% despite the country facing natural disasters such as droughts, Cyclone Idai and COVID-19.
Since resumption of international flights is imminent, Cabinet was also briefed by the Health Minister, VP Constantino Chiwenga on the visits he made to the International Airports to asses their readiness to deal with traffic.
