UDACIZA Statement on the 2025/6 Rain Season in Zimbabwe

As predicted Zimbabwe has received above normal rains during the 2025/6 rain season experienced so far 1 which comes as a relief and a blessing given the backdrop of Climate Change induced droughts that were experienced in the last few seasons. The Metrological Services Department of Zimbabwe (MSDZ) warns that despite the promising rainfall outlook, the risk of dry spells, violent storms, and flash floods2 remains high. As the country celebrates these abundant rainfalls, the Union for the Development of Apostolic and Zionist Churches in Zimbabwe-Africa (UDACIZA) notes with concern the looming hazard of floods that has endangered human life during this rain season.

UDACIZA is deeply saddened by the devasting floods currently affecting communities across Zimbabwe. Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones, homes, livestock and livelihoods. UDACIZA acknowledge the tireless efforts of emergency responders like the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) and humanitarian organizations working to give aid and support to the affected communities.

UDACIZA has made the following key Observations regarding the 2025/26 flooding
There is strong evidence that Zimbabwe is now being affected by climate change characterized by unpredictable rainfall patterns. The country has received above normal rainfall which has resulted in an increase in cases of flooding across the country. UDACIZA has observed that women have been hugely affected by the floods. The cases of women trapped by flooded rivers in Mberengwa and in Mount Darwin are further proof of the gendered nature of climate change and how women are increasingly and disproportionately exposed to hazards in the context of climate change.
UDACIZA has also observed that the flooding has affected both rural and urban settlements. The church has taken note of videos of flooding in metropolitan centers notably Harare which indicate either poorly designed or dilapidating drainage systems. The flooding in Glen View 7 has highlighted a glaring challenge on the growth of unregulated urban settlements in Harare. The floods have highlighted that we are still far from adhering to SDG11 on sustainable cities and communities that aims to make urban areas inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Some public transporters, private drivers and pedestrians have shown acts of gross negligence and recklessness as some social media posts have shown people attempting to cross flooded water bodies since the beginning of the rain season and in some unfortunate incidents such acts have resulted in fatalities. Much appreciation goes to the work of valor by Disaster response front-liners notably the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) sub-aqua teams who have rescued victims who had been stranded in flooded rivers in Mberengwa and in Mount Darwin.
The recent case of two young women Rebecca Midzi and Panashe Mutsvairi who lost their lives when their vehicle was swept away by an overflowing river while trying to drive past Chadzire Bridge in Buhera is saddening. The sad loss of Rebecca and Panashe is just one of the many cases of flooding that has been reported in the country. Some of the cases have not been reported.
Recommendations
Now it is evident that climate change is affecting Zimbabwe therefore our fiscal plans, our development and Disaster Response Plans should reflect the urgent need to proactively mitigate climate change induced disasters. UDACIZA is strongly recommending government and the international community to assist in strengthening of urban and rural infrastructure and technology that minimizes the effect of climate change on rural and urban settlements.
UDACIZA is committed to collaborate with government departments and line ministries that are committed to awareness raising and behavior change that targets Zimbabweans from recklessness behavior during climate change induced hazards. The church urges all Zimbabweans to respect the sanctity of God given life by avoiding crossing flooded rivers, taking heed of the Met Department warnings.
The church is ready to assist those affected by floods especially survivors of all forms of Gender Based Violence during floods. UDACIZA strongly urges development partners and government departments who are rendering any form of humanitarian assistance to adhere to SPHERE principles and ensure that all vulnerable groups are protected from sexual exploitation during these moments of need.
As people of faith, we are called to act with compassion and solidarity. UDACIZA is urging the people of Zimbabwe and all communities to come together to support flood victims, provide shelter, food, clothing and emotional support. Let us also pray for safety and resilience of those affected.