Three truckloads of humanitarian relief supplies donated by South African churches are expected to leave for Zimbabwe tomorrow (Saturday) morning after officials from the South African Department of Agriculture intervened to facilitate the necessary paperwork.

The continuing relief effort is being co-ordinated by the South African Council of Churches (SACC) under the name Operation Hope for Zimbabwe. The initiative is intended to assist families who have been displaced by the Zimbabwean government's Operation Murambatsvina. Last month, the Council's Central Committee condemned the tactics used by Zimbabwe's government and called on churches to stand in solidarity with the millions of Zimbabweans who have been left homeless and destitute.

The SACC had initially hoped to dispatch the first shipment of food and blankets last week, but was delayed by Zimbabwe's documentation requirements. Mr. Eddie Makue, the Deputy General Secretary of the SACC, said he was "relieved" that the requisite paperwork was now complete and the supplies were ready to move. The Council thanked the South African Department of Agriculture for its co-operation in helping to expedite the shipment.

The SACC has appealed to its members to make donations to Operation Hope for Zimbabwe in cash and in kind.

Cash contributions may be deposited to SACC Emergency Relief Trust, Account Number 1979 410 526, Nedbank, Fox Street Branch, Branch Code 190805, Swift Code NEDSZAJJ. The reference line of the deposit slip should be marked "HOPE ZIMBABWE".

Contributions of goods should be arranged through the SACC National Office (011 241 7800). Immediate needs include maize, sugar beans, sugar, soap and toilet paper.

For more information: Bishop Ivan Abrahams (011 615 0729) or Mr. Eddie Makue (082 853 8781)