Tsholotsho south Member of Parliament Zenzo Sibanda and Dikili headmaster Robert Ngwenya viewing the classroom block which was destroyed by heavy rains at Dikili primary school
Patient Sibanda, Chronicle Reporter
AT least 18 homesteads and five schools in Tsholotsho were destroyed and more than 3,000 cattle, donkeys and goats were killed during heavy rains.
Scores of villagers in Shaba, Dikili, Dogwe, Nata, Malila, and Mathe were left homeless following the downpour that pounded the district on Monday at around 4PM.
Ward 16 Councillor Patrick Ngwenya yesterday told The Chronicle that 85 head of cattle, more than 3,000 goats and 110 donkeys were killed by the torrential rains.
He said the livestock was either struck by lightning or washed away by raging floods.
“Villagers reported the issue to me. We’ve more than 18 homesteads in five villages that were affected by storms. Affected villagers asked for accommodation from neighbours,” said Clr Ngwenya.
He said the list of dead livestock was still being compiled and villagers were reluctant to burn the carcases.
The storm, said Clr Ngwenya, left Shaba, Dikili, Nata, Dogwe and Mathe Primary Schools destroyed.
“Strong winds blew away roofs of classrooms and teachers’ cottages. At Shaba three cottages were destroyed and at Dogwe two classroom blocks were left roofless,” said Clr Ngwenya.
Villagers who often experience heavy flooding during the rainy season said this week’s floods have been the worst.
“I’ve never seen such rain in my life. My huts were destroyed and the rain carried away my clothes and plates. I’m still in shock. I’m now sleeping at my relative’s homestead,” said Rachael Sibanda, a villager.
Councillor Alois Ndebele of Ward 19 that covers Dikili Village said the heavy rains damaged the school classroom blocks.
“Parents don’t have money. We appeal for assistance from the government so that our classrooms are roofed,” said Clr Ndebele.
Tsholotsho South Member of Parliament Zenzo Sibanda visited the affected homesteads and schools yesterday.
He also appealed to the government for assistance.
“We appeal to the government for assistance.
“The rains have destroyed homesteads of disadvantaged people. Some people slept in the open.
“Schoolchildren are having lessons under trees following the incident,” said Sibanda.
Last year, hundreds of villagers were left homeless in Tsholotsho following severe flooding.
Flooding has become a perennial problem in the district.