Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu,[email protected]
Several houses and a school in Gwanda Urban were damaged after heavy rains hit the area last Wednesday.
Five families were left homeless after their entire rooftops were blown away, while infrastructure at Senondo Primary School also sustained damage.
The district’s civil protection committee has since activated relief efforts.
Gwanda District disaster risk reduction focal person, Mr Awakhiwe Moyo, said the committee organized alternative temporary accommodation for the families left homeless.
“On the evening of 5 November, the office received reports that the rains have left a trail of destruction in Gwanda Urban, and preliminary assessments were done immediately, working with councillors, the mayor, and chairpersons of disaster management structures at ward level.
The Civil Protection Committee, working with the Mayor’s office, assessed the damage in the affected area and ascertained that five families were totally left homeless as the entire rooftop was blown away and everything inside the house was submerged in water.
Though they all managed to source alternative accommodation for the night,” he said.
Mr Moyo added that Gwanda Tshitaudze Member of Parliament, Cde Fisani Moyo, has pledged to assist the affected families with alternative accommodation and groceries.
He said a comprehensive technical report, including bills of quantities to determine the full extent of the damage and costs incurred, is yet to be compiled. Mr. Moyo confirmed that no casualties have been reported.
Damage at Senondo Primary School includes damaged roofs, windows, and doors.
He also appealed to the business community and miners to come forward and assist the victims.
@DubeMatutu
