A TOTAL of 29 schools in Matabeleland South have been destroyed by of violent storms that hit the province last week, the provincial education director Tumisang Thabela has said.
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Speaking at a meeting organised by the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) in Gwanda yesterday, Thabela said the storms which were accompanied by strong winds and heavy rains left a trail of destruction in the province.
“Schools were mostly affected by violent thunderstorms throughout the province and we have received reports of 29 schools that were destroyed,” Thabela said.
She said devastation was more severe in Insiza district compared to other areas.
“The Insiza team was on the ground over the weekend as Denje Primary School was the hardest hit school where six classroom blocks, three teachers’ cottages were damaged and a number of pupils were injured.”
The provincial CPU chairperson Midard Khumalo, who is also the provincial administrator, said the situation on the ground was bad as reports they received on Friday showed that the whole province was affected.
“We are aware that the heavy rains have brought misery, fear and trauma to communities,” Khumalo said.
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“Now the question is; what is our state of preparedness?
“We do experience a number of disturbances during rainy seasons and in most instances there are hazards we are aware might turn into disasters, but not much has been done to complement the plans we have.”
He said there was need to revisit affected structures and reinforce the structures if needs be.
“We have to approach any humanitarian agency so as to know exactly what is required and go on the ground and visit Denje Primary School as they definitely need assistance.
“As we speak, children are learning in the open,” Khumalo added.
