Online Reporter
Nokuthula Dube
The Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has reported that school property worth over US$16 500 has been damaged so far in the 2025/2026 rainfall season.
More than 41 people have also died as a result of heavy rains, flash floods, strong winds, landslides and lightning.
In an interview, CPU chief director, Mr Nathan Nkomo, said the trend in fatalities over the past weeks is alarming.
He also revealed that the 2025/2026 rainfall season has been the deadliest, with 15 schools having been affected so far.
“The compilation of bills for the critical infrastructure damage is ongoing. The Contingency Plan has estimated the total damage at US$16 500,” he said.
According to Mr Nkomo, this year’s rainfall season has caused the most damage compared to previous years.
Chitungwiza in Harare Metropolitan recorded severe flooding, on November, 25, affecting Unit L Extension and Garikai housing due to blocked culverts, debris and poor drainage on wetlands.
A rapid assessment by Civil Protection and Chitungwiza Municipality warned of cholera and dysentery risks if rains persist, urging unclogging of drains, flood mapping and medical support.
In Manicaland’s Mutasa District, heavy downpours on November 24 triggered a shaft collapse near Redwing Mine, trapping and killing eight illegal miners whose bodies were retrieved the next day.
Masvingo Province saw flash floods submerge a bus in Gutu District’s Chivake River on November 26, but four passengers escaped unharmed with community rescue aid using ropes.
In Matebeleland North Province, Lupane District, he said a child went missing.
“On Friday, November 21, 2025, at approximately 11 am, Banele Ngwenya, a 5-year-old child, went missing near the Gwayi River area,” he said.
“Footprints were found near the riverbanks, indicating the child was attempting to cross the Gwayi River. Immediate family members, relatives, and neighbours launched a search within the surrounding Sakhathala area.
“The District Development Coordinator’s (DDC) Office in Lupane was promptly contacted upon discovery of the missing child. The DDC’s office made contact with the Dete Police Station, requesting their assistance in the search operation.
“Police personnel from Dete have actively joined the search teams, extending the scope of the search to surrounding areas where the child might have wandered.”
