Severe torrential rains struck Mugamba commune in Bururi province, southern Burundi, earlier on Friday, leaving local farmers in urgent need of assistance. The storm, which brought heavy rainfall, violent winds, and hail, devastated thousands of crops, including maize, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and bananas, putting the livelihoods of farmers at significant risk.
The worst-hit areas include neighborhoods of Mwumba and Gozi in the Mugamba commune, where vast swathes of crops were destroyed. The storm also damaged a classroom at the Mwumba high school.
With harvests now destroyed, residents are expressing deep concerns about the looming threat of famine. The loss of crops that were due for harvest means many families face an uncertain future, with hunger being an immediate concern. Local farmers are urgently calling for assistance.
In an interview with local radio station Isanganiro, Vénuste Ntahombaye, mayor of Mugamba commune, reassured residents, stating that efforts would be made to identify the families most affected by the storm. He also appealed for assistance to support those impacted by the disaster.
This devastating storm is part of a troubling trend of extreme weather events hitting the country. Last month, a powerful storm struck Gashikanwa Commune in Ngozi province, northern Burundi, leaving nearly 10,000 households in dire need of assistance. A similar storm also hit Mugina commune in Cibitoke province, north-western Burundi, last week, destroying approximately 16 hectares of crops.
The ongoing storms have exacerbated the already dire economic situation, as the rising cost of living continues to strain communities. With many families relying on agriculture for their livelihood, the crop destruction has left them in a precarious position. The need for urgent humanitarian aid is growing, with increasing calls for swift intervention to assist affected communities and prevent widespread hunger.
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