HEAVY rains and strong winds have destroyed 12 houses at Ikwete and Malombwe streets in Lyamkena Ward, Makambako Town Council, Njombe, leaving residents homeless and a 15-year-old boy injured.

Ikwete Street Chairman Amon Neston reported that nine houses were damaged in his area during   January 3 storm, which struck at around 2pm.

Malombwe Street Chairman Daniel Japhet confirmed the destruction of three houses in his area and urged the government and stakeholders to provide food and construction materials for the affected families.

One of the victims, Joyna Ndawala, appealed for help, highlighting that many residents lost not only houses but also their food supplies in the disaster.

Makambako Town Council Disaster Management Committee, led by Environment Officer Gift Kivia, has assessed the affected areas and will submit report to the Town Council Director Kenneth Haule for further action.

Since the start of the 2024/2025 rainy season, heavy rains and strong winds have destroyed 32 houses and   CCM office in Makambako Town Council. This includes 13 houses in Mlowa Ward on November 29, seven houses and   CCM office in Utengule Ward on December 14, and 11 houses in Lyamkena Ward on January 3.