Flooding and landslides in Tanzania caused by weeks of torrential rain have killed at least 155 people, the country’s Prime Minister said on Thursday. About 200,000 people and more than 51,000 households have also been affected by the disaster, he added.
Kassim Majaliwa told parliament that the El Niño climate pattern has exacerbated the ongoing rainy season, causing unprecedented flooding that has destroyed crucial infrastructure and left several schools and offices shut.
“The heavy El Nino rains, accompanied by strong winds, floods, and landslides in various parts of the country, have caused significant damage. “These include loss of life, destruction of crops, homes, citizens’ property, and infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and railways,” he added.
He warned that the rains might continue into May, and urged those living in lower plains to move to higher ground.
The East African region is being bludgeoned by heavy rains, also sweeping through Kenya and Burundi. Scores of people have been reported dead.
In Kenya, President William Ruto has directed the army to assist with rescue operations, as heavy rains batter most of the country, including the capital, Nairobi. The Red Cross says at least 45 people have been killed in the country.
In Burundi, the rains have displaced almost 100,000 people.