BY PHUMELELE MKHONTA
MBABANE– The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has mastered the art of quick response.
Following the emergence of COVID-19 and recurrent storms and torrential rains, the NDMA is proving to be more responsive and this has been proven from the past Saturday’s storms which mainly affected the Hhohho and Manzini region.
According to the NDMA Communication Manager Wandile Mavuso, a total of 140 kilograms of rice and 21 tarpaulins were distributed among deserving beneficiaries who were affected by the storms.
“An assessment was conducted on Saturday and Sunday, April 30, 2023. A total of 9 tarpaulins were distributed in the Manzini and 12 in Hhohho tarpaulins and a combined total of 21 tarpaulins were distributed across the two regions.
“A total of 140 kg rice was distributed to some deserving beneficiaries and no reports from Shiselweni and Lubombo regions,” detailed Mavuso.
Explaining what entailed on the ground, the NDMA Communications Manager said on Saturday afternoon, April 29, 2023, strong winds accompanied by rain and hailstorm hit the Manzini and Hhohho regions affecting Manzini North, Kukhanyeni, Mkhiweni, Madlangempisi, Timphisini, and Ntfonjeni tinkhundla.
Mavuso said a total of 59 households with 286 people were affected by the storm from the six constituencies.
“Due to effects of climate change, such localized extreme weather events are predicted to increase in frequency and intensity causing massive destruction to life/ property. Households are advised to regularly inspect or monitor their roofing for weak spots and retrofit immediately. Doors, windows, and openings must be kept closed at all times when away or when strong winds are observed.
“Ensure that roofing is thoroughly tied with hoop irons or wire to the wall or ring beam and that the right size and thickness of roofing sheets are used. If you can afford you are advised not to wait for NDMA but make means to rehabilitate.
“Support by the NDMA is to the most vulnerable who have no means and is dependent on the availability of resources. The NDMA currently is constrained with resources to respond to building material holistically to affected people,” advised the communications manager.
