Residents in Nyamugari Sector, Kirehe District have appealed for help following a heavy downpour that hit the area three days ago.

The residents want authorities and aid organisations to come to their rescue after the heavy rains destroyed their property and crops.

Dativa Musanabera, one of the residents told The New Times that the heavy rains destroyed banana plantations and houses, leaving 21 families homeless.

"We cannot afford to pay rent elsewhere. If we don’t find a solution to fix our house, we are going to remain here in the open,” Musanabera said.

"We are calling on authorities and anyone else of goodwill to help us rehabilitate the destroyed houses. Each year we are affected by windy rains, but this year is worse.”

Edward Munyakazi, another resident, said the destruction was immense, noting that he had lost all his property.

He said the roofing of his house and kitchen were destroyed, adding that he needed support to get the house roofed.

"The sudden rain coupled with strong winds and storm wreaked havoc in the community. We need help to restart life…. I stayed outside last night because my house is very weak. I need accommodation,” he lamented.

Ananie Gatsinzi, the sector executive secretary, said the incident was unfortunate.

He, however, said the sector was working to help the affected families.

"Efforts are underway to arrange for temporary accommodation for the affected residents. More support is being organized to help the affected,” he said.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw