After days of relentless rainfall across East Africa, the toll of the resulting floods and landslides is becoming tragically clear. In Tanzania, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa reported that at least 155 lives have been lost, with over 200,000 people affected by the deluge. The devastation extends to infrastructure, homes, and crops, exacerbating an already dire situation.
Attributing the calamity to the El Niño climate pattern, Majaliwa emphasized the compounding effects of environmental degradation. Deforestation, unsustainable agricultural practices, and unregulated livestock grazing have amplified the impact of the heavy rains, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life.
The situation is equally dire in neighbouring Kenya, where flash floods have claimed the lives of at least 13 people in Nairobi alone. With forecasts predicting continued heavy rainfall, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has activated a multi-agency emergency response centre to address the escalating crisis.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the displacement of over 100,000 people in Burundi due to the relentless downpours.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of these catastrophic events, our hearts go out to the wonderful people of Tanzania and other affected nations during these trying times. From Tanzania to Kenya and beyond, the toll of climate change-induced disasters serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for sustainable environmental practices and robust disaster preparedness measures.
