Govt pledges support to disaster hit communities in Kirehe
Monday, October 28, 2024
Some of dozens of houses affected by winds in Kirehe’s Mpanga Sector on October 26. Courtesy

The government has pledged support for people whose houses were destroyed by strong winds and heavy rainsin Kirehe District.

A fierce storm swept across Kirehe’s Mpanga Sector on October 26, unleashing powerful winds and rain that ruined homes, schools, and other important infrastructure.

ALSO READ:Weather agency warns of strong winds in four districts

Officials in the area reported substantial damage at G.S. Mpanga where the storm destroyed four classrooms as well as toilet facilities. The kitchen at G.S. Rurambi School was heavily damaged, as well as much of the surrounding residential area.

More than 30 homes across Nyagatovu, Rurambi I and Rurambi II, were damaged, leaving scores of families without shelter. Families without alternative housing were "for the time being” accommodated by neighbours.

"With the support of MINEMA and Red Cross, we are giving them iron sheets and also home utensils,” Bruno Rangira, the Mayor of Kirehe District, told The New Times.

He said that up to 45 households will be supported.

A 24-year-old woman and over 20 cows and sheep died when lightning struck in the same district on Sunday, October 20.

ALSO READ: What you need to do to protect yourself from a lightning strike

The incident occurred in Remera Village, Nyarutunga Cell, Nyarubuye Sector, during heavy afternoon rains.

In September, strong winds destroyed 11 classrooms in the same district.

Last week, lightning, landslide also killed five children in Kigali.

According to the Rwanda Meteorology Agency, from October 21 to October 31, many parts of the country will continue to experience heavy rains.