Rainstorm survivors appeal for assistance

 Rainstorm survivors in Bala, Traditional Authority (T/A) Kampingo Sibande in Mzimba District have appealed to well-wishers and government for support following the destruction of their homes by a rainstorm this month.

The rainstorm also blew off roofs of classroom blocks and teachers’ houses at Mtavu Primary School.

During a tour of the area, community members said they needed food and resources to repair their houses.

Juliet Lowole, from Esau Village, said the rainstorm destroyed her house.

“It is difficult for me to raise money to rebuild my house because at the same time, I need to look for food,” she said.

Group village head Leonard Kayoyosya Lonje said about 20 households in Chimimba, Madukani, Esau, Chimayi and

 Paulosi villages are in need of accommodation and food.

Mtavu Primary School head teacher Jonathan Chilasa confirmed the development in an interview on Saturday, saying they urgently

need help to repair the classroom blocks.“We are looking for support if we are to create a safe environment for 112 pupils,” he said.

Chilasa said he reported the issue to Mzimba district commissioner’s office.

“The rainstorm destroyed textbooks, iron sheets and planks,” he said.

A pupil, Shadreck Mseteka said the situation has forced them to learn in a church.

He said: “With the congestion in the church, the situation could help spread Covid-19.

“We want to return to our classrooms to concentrate.”

Mzimba district commissioner Rodney Simwaka could not comment when we contacted him