NYAGATARE – More than 85 families in Rukomo Sector, Nyagatare District are homeless after heavy rains yesterday destroyed their houses.

Rukomo Executive Secretary, Emmanuel Hakuzweyezu, told The New Times that the most affected area was in Gashenyi cell in the sector’s trading centre.

"It is a tragedy!” he said of the rainfall. "Over 85 houses and hectares of banana plantations were destroyed.”
Residents told The New Times that the downpour was characterized by strong winds that tore off roofs and electrical poles were pulled down.

"It started at around 3 pm. We were in the house when part of the roof flew off. We ran out,” Oswald Hakizimana, one of the affected residents said.

More than 37 people who sustained injuries from their destroyed houses were taken to Rukomo Health Centre.
"We have so far admitted 37 victims of the heavy rains and more are still coming,” a nurse at the health centre said on Wednesday.

One of the victims who were admitted at the health centre narrated the ordeal.

"I was in my house when the roof fell on me. I shouted for help and my neighbors rescued me.
I have sustained serious injuries but hopefully I will be discharged soon.”

Apart from homes, a kitchen and dinning hall at SOPEM Rukomo Secondary School, a nursery school and petrol station were also destroyed by the heavy downpour.
Most affected residents sought refuge with neighbors and friends.

When asked whether the affected residents would get help, the sector head stated:

"We are working tirelessly to seek assistance for those who sought refuge with their neighbors. We have already communicated to higher officials for intervention.”

Ends