In pictures: In a time of cholera

This is the reality of Zimbabwe’s cholera epidemic, aid workers say. Dehydrated patients lie motionless on makeshift beds. Nurses work day and night with barely any medical supplies.

It is in rural areas like this that a disease control expert fears is the new face of this crisis. "Cholera has spread to a much bigger area now. One of the risks with cholera is patients moving around."

Rubbish litters the streets of the southern town of Beitbridge. Church volunteers help clear rubbish in the hope it might prevent the spread of cholera which the UN says has already claimed almost 1,000 lives.

Years of neglect means that clean water is scarce in Zimbabwe. Raw sewage flows through the streets. There are fears that with the onset of the rainy season the cholera will continue to spread.

Seven-year-old Sinikiwe cradles her young brother Simba. Hunger stalks their family. Their local church, supported by the charity Tearfund provides what little food, clothing and seed they have.

Unlike many areas, maize is available at this mill near Nkaye in southern Zimbabwe. A local pastor says, "People sell cattle for less than a quarter of its value in return for a few bags of maize."

Hyperinflation renders Zimbabwean dollars valueless in days. This man's wife tried to buy maize with their last dollars. But they were worthless. He was forced to beg for food for his children.

Supporting the opposition comes at a high price. This village councillor elected in March says he's been repeatedly threatened and beaten by soldiers. Pix: Marcus Perkins Words: Abby King/Tearfund.

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