By Jones Gadama, May 5, 2025
Heavy rainfall that started pouring on Saturday night has brought devastation to Kakumbi in Kamoza village, under Senior Chief Mkumbira in Nkhata Bay, rendering over 60 households destitute due to flash floods.
The affected households, situated along the Nkhata Bay River, are only considered safe during the dry season, making them vulnerable to such disasters.
Councilor Cyria Adamana Nyamwela, speaking to this reporter, confirmed the situation and urged the government and well-wishers to provide swift support to the affected families.
“These households are in dire need of assistance, and we cannot afford to delay,” Nyamwela emphasized.
Nkhata Bay District Commissioner Rodgers Newa, who visited the affected areas, reported that apart from houses, some crops along the river have been washed away.
Preliminary reports indicate that households in Senior Chief Fukamapiri and Malengamzoma have also been severely affected.
The Ling’winya bridge, a critical infrastructure, has been washed away, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Newa advised residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to uplands, stressing the importance of prioritizing their safety.
“We urge everyone in affected areas to take necessary precautions and move to higher grounds to avoid further risks,” Newa said.
This recent incident is not an isolated event, as Nkhata Bay has experienced similar flash floods in the past.
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has warned of possible flooding in several rivers, emphasizing the need for residents to exercise caution.
The government, through DoDMA, has made arrangements for the provision of relief assistance to affected families.
The department has called on district councils in flood-prone areas to evacuate residents in possible hotspots.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents and authorities alike are working together to mitigate the effects of the flash floods.
The international community may also be approached for assistance, given the severity of the situation.
The flash floods have had a significant impact on crops, with some crops washed away, which will likely exacerbate food insecurity in the region.
As rescue efforts continue, the people of Nkhata Bay hope for a swift return to normalcy and appreciate any support that can be offered to alleviate their suffering.
