Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau Chief
SEVERAL families in Gwanda District have been left stranded after their homes were damaged by heavy rains that hit the area recently and are appealing for help.
Two schools in the district also suffered damages as a result of the rains. The local Civil Protection Committee has been running around to provide some of the affected households with groceries and tents.
The affected villages are Enyandeni and Gwakwe. An assessment that has been conducted has shown that about 25 homesteads have been affected.
The provincial civil protection committee has since appealed for further assistance for affected families. Among the assistance needed is building material to help the families reconstruct their homes, groceries, blankets and clothing.
In a report to the National Civil Protection Unit, Matabeleland South Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mrs Latiso Dlamini-Maseko said one child was injured during the incident
“Strong winds and heavy rains left a trail of destruction in Gwanda District on the 27th of October 2022. About 25 households were affected by the heavy rains and the strong winds. The waiting shelter in Stanmore was partially destroyed and assessment is yet to be done.
“The provincial office managed to provide a few tents and some food items though there is a wide gap. As such the province is requesting for financial assistance to carry out more assessments and provide help for the affected,” she said.
Enyandeni village head, Mr Isaac Nyathi said the destruction had left families in dire need of assistance. He said some families lost all the foodstuff they had.
Mr Nyathi said those who were using tents should rebuild their homes soon before the area receives heavy rains hence the appeal for assistance.
“The rains have severely affected families. They lost the little food that they had. Homes have been damaged while others have been totally destroyed. People need to rebuild their homes soon before we receive more rains because tents are just a temporary measure. People also need food and other groceries. We appeal to well-wishers to assist us,” he said.
A report has shown that two classroom blocks at Moodspruit Primary School and Kafusi High School have been affected. One classroom block was damaged in each of the schools.
Kafusi village head, Mr Solomon Hlali said the damaged classroom block had to be repaired as it would affect learning. – @DubeMatutu
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter