Tinaye Agere
Nokuthula Dube
A GRADE THREE LEARNER lost her life when a shop in which she had sought shelter during a heavy thunderstorm in Mberengwa collapsed.
The incident, which occurred on November 11, marked the first fatality linked to rainfall-related disasters during the 2024/2025 rainy season.
The building collapsed under the weight of heavy rains and strong winds that battered Zvomukonde village in Ward 4, Mberengwa district.
The storm also left several families homeless as houses were destroyed, with roofs blown off and walls severely damaged.
According to the Department of Civil Protection chief director, Mr Nathan Nkomo, localised downpours have caused widespread damage across the country since the rainy season began.
“On November 11, a storm affected Zvomukonde village, Ward 4, in Mberengwa district,” he said.
“Schools, clinics, houses and shops were damaged. A Grade Three girl lost her life after seeking shelter in a grocery shop which collapsed. The storm left some families homeless as their houses were destroyed.”
In total, 79 schools have been damaged across multiple provinces, including 29 in Midlands, 19 in Masvingo and others in Mashonaland Central, Manicaland and Matabeleland North and South provinces.
Twenty-four health facilities have also been affected by the downpours. They include maternity wards and clinics in Midlands, Masvingo and Mashonaland Central.
Over 580 houses have also been damaged nationwide, leaving hundreds of families vulnerable.
In Mashonaland Central province’s Muzarabani district, strong winds on November 13 tore roofs off classrooms and staff quarters at Budiriro Secondary School.
In Bubi district, Matabeleland North province, a storm on November 18 affected 25 households and damaged three primary schools: Longwe, Lortondale and Emhlabathini.
The Government has since activated civil protection structures at national and sub-national levels to coordinate relief efforts.
Mr Nkomo said efforts were underway to secure materials for repairing roofs and other damaged structures, while families in high-risk areas are being considered for relocation to safer locations.
Awareness campaigns were being intensified to educate communities on the dangers of the rainy season and how to stay safe.
Government partners, he said, are also mobilising resources to complement response efforts.
“We are advising local authorities to identify and allocate safer spaces for relocation. Ensuring proper infrastructure in flood-prone areas is crucial to prevent similar tragedies.”
Online Reporter