On Friday, May 30, CARE International's country office in Zimbabwe was
ordered by the government of Zimbabwe to suspend all field operations pending
an investigation into allegations of political activism. CARE has complied with
the order and has recalled all field staff.
CARE has strict policies against political involvement and
categorically denies the organization has encouraged or tolerated any
political activity. CARE is committed to providing independent, impartial,
apolitical relief and development assistance on the basis of need to improve
sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable populations, according to the Code of
Conduct for Non-Governmental Organizations and to CARE International's Code of
Ethics.
CARE's mission is to serve individuals and families in some
of the most vulnerable rural and urban communities in the Zimbabwe.
Drawing strength from our global diversity, resources and experience, we
promote innovative solutions and facilitate lasting change by strengthening
capacity for self-help, providing economic opportunities, delivering relief in
emergencies and addressing discrimination. Over 1.8 million Zimbabweans
benefit from CARE programs, which include projects in food aid and food
security, sustainable agriculture and natural resource development, water and
sanitation, microcredit, support for orphans and vulnerable children and home-based care for the chronically ill.
CARE has pledged to cooperate with the government of Zimbabwe
in resolving the situation so that humanitarian operations may be resumed
as soon as possible.
