New data from the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) has listed Zimbabwe as one of the poorest nations in the world.

While poverty in Zimbabwe has been an issue for quite some time, these new statistics help place it in a more concrete context. According to the data, 72 percent of the country’s population live below the poverty line, earning less than $1.25 daily.

As poverty in the country grows exponentially, President Robert Mugabe and First Lady Grace Mugabe have announced plans to place Alpha Omega, their personal brand of ice creams and chocolates, into local grocery stores.

Alpha Omega was conceived as a direct response to Nestle pulling its facilities from the country due to pressure from human rights activists. While Alpha Omega provides Zimbabwe with new means to produce its own food, it’s a small solution to a much larger problem.

The WFP spotlights several problem areas that are further contributing to Zimbabwe’s crippling poverty. According to the report 72 percent of the country are currently living below the poverty line, and 30 percent of the 72 percent are “food poor” or suffering from HIV and AIDS.

“In recent years, food production in Zimbabwe has been devastated by a number of factors including natural disasters andeconomic and political instability,” states the WFP report on Zimbabwe. “Food and nutrition security remains fragile and subject to natural and economic shocks in Zimbabwe, with chronic and persistent rates of undernourishment.”

– Alexander Jones

Sources: Mukori, Visser, WFP
Photo: Nehanda Radio