There are some people don't seem to like the comments Teribus and I have made on this thread. I am not going to knock any of you for it, but I fully agree with the comments Teribus has contributed to the thread. He has proven to be a realist.

Does overseas aid make it to those who need it? the simple answer is No. There is more frustration among relief workers in South Africa than anywhere else. I met two(here in England)not while in SA.

They said most of the aid is channelled through government departments and the militias are fed from it first. They hold vase stockpiles of everything, including clothing, bedding and medical supplies. Only a fraction reaches it's intended target and that goes to those who support the government. If your hungry, you soon change your allegiance. They said it was rumoured that considerable quantities of aid was actually sold by the militias to neighbouring countries.

Not exactly what any of you that contributed expected.

Slam the ass of me if you wish, but nothing will ever change in Zimbabwe. Mugabe has his followers (not all of them live in fear). If he was whacked in the morning there would be another one to take his place.

I understand so many of you live in hope and speak in a logical sense with reference to Ireland and other countries that took the course of democracy instead of the use of the gun. It simply doesn't work like that out there. I know some of the unconventional parties in Ireland may have nudged the odd postal vote their direction, but they didn't visit areas the weeks leading up to the elections and hack their point across with machetes.

Tribal influence is strong in SA. You will never see an overseas government become involved in their politics at ground level. They would get nowhere and never get out.

Say what you wish about my dim view of the situation, but it's how it is.