By Rose Cross Mahorya

Mzuzu, May 16, Mana: As heavy rains persist in Mzuzu City, the number of households rendered destitute has increased to 90 with Msongwe, Mchengautuwa East and West, and Chibavi wards being the hardest hit.

Disaster Risk Management Officer who is also Public Relations Officer for Mzuzu City Council, MacDonald Gondwe, said in an interview on Friday that majority of the assessed households have lost all food items and shelter.

“We have also received reports that some houses have also been damaged in Masasa, Luwinga, Chibanja and Chiputula residential areas.

“Since the rains are not showing any signs of subsidising, we expect more victims in dire need of support particularly tents, plastic papers, kitchen utensils, food and psychosocial counselling,” said Gondwe.

A member of Ward Disaster Risk and Management Committee in Mchengautuwa West Ward, Ezekiel Nyirenda, confirmed that one person has sustained minor injuries after his house collapsed on him. 

“So far, only one person has registered a minor injury, but we fear for women and children who suffer more during these circumstances especially in the absence of shelter and food,” he said.

District Social Welfare Officer for Mzimba North, who also oversees Mzuzu City, Hellen Simwaka, said her office is in touch with child protection officers in the affected wards to conduct assessments and offer psychosocial support.

“We are aware that during troubled times like these, psychosocial support is very crucial in ensuring timely recovery of the victims hence we are working hand in hand with the city council as well other stakeholders to ensure the victims get timely support,” said Simwaka.