18 villagers stranded on Save River island as floods worsen in Chipinge South
- Southerton Business Times
- 44 minutes ago
- 2 min read
HARARE, ZIMBABWE – A humanitarian crisis is unfolding along the Save River, where 18 villagers from Mahenye in Chipinge South have been stranded for nearly three weeks on Lisungwe Island due to rising floodwaters. The group, which had travelled to the island for seasonal farming and fishing, is now cut off as persistent rains continue to swell the river, making safe passage impossible.
Local authorities say attempts to reach the stranded villagers have so far failed. The Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub-Aqua Unit has been unable to access the island due to strong currents and high water levels. Chipinge South legislator Clifford Hlatswayo described the situation as critical, warning that those stranded face increasing danger.
“The water levels continue to rise, and there have been sightings of crocodiles in the surrounding channels, which puts the villagers at serious risk,” Hlatswayo said.
Authorities had initially considered deploying an air rescue, but a helicopter typically used in such emergencies is currently committed to other operations, limiting immediate response options.
William Mashava confirmed that the Civil Protection Unit has been activated and is coordinating rescue efforts. With no aerial support available, attention has shifted to alternative methods, including the use of wooden boats from nearby Mozambican communities. However, officials warn this approach carries significant risks.
“Currents are strong and unpredictable, and any rescue attempt by boat must be carefully assessed to avoid further danger,” a local disaster response official said.
Provincial meteorological authorities have warned that rainfall is expected to persist across the region until the end of March, with heavier downpours likely. The continued rains are expected to further raise water levels along the Save River, increasing the risk of flooding and complicating rescue operations.
This is not the first such incident in the area this year, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of communities living near flood-prone zones. Lisungwe Island, while known for its fertile soils and fishing opportunities, becomes hazardous during the rainy season, often leaving those who venture there stranded. Disaster management experts say the situation underscores the need for stronger early warning systems and community awareness in high-risk areas.
As the situation drags on, pressure is mounting on authorities to secure a safe and timely evacuation of the stranded villagers. Communities along major rivers are also being urged to remain vigilant and avoid flood-prone areas as weather conditions deteriorate.
Save River flooding Zimbabwe
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