Story by Learnmore Jenya
SIX FAMILIES in Zvegona, under Chief Mafala in Zvishavane District, were left homeless on Sunday evening after torrential rains battered the community, destroying homes, crops and livestock.
Residents described the downpour as sudden and devastating.
“It started raining around four in the afternoon. We were closing windows and preparing supper when my grandson, who is in Grade seven, screamed for help as the walls of the hut where he was sleeping began collapsing,” one villager recounted.
Another resident said, “Our house was blown away, and all our food was soaked. We have been left with nothing and are hoping the Civil Protection Unit’s arrival will bring relief.”
Zvishavane District Development Coordinator, Mr Darlington Chokera, confirmed the incident, saying CPD is on the ground assessing the damage.
“The rains destroyed several houses in Zvegona. Teams have been dispatched to assess the situation, and we recommend relocating affected families to higher ground. There is an urgent need to promote sustainable farming techniques, including contour ridges, and to encourage the use of durable building materials to mitigate future damage,” he said.
The Midlands has been experiencing heavy rains that have triggered floods in low-lying areas, prompting authorities to urge communities to stay alert or relocate to safer locations.
