At least 15 people were reported as killed in floods and landslides that struck in the Bujumbura province of Burundi on 29 March 2015.
Since then very little information has been available regarding the current situation. However, a team from Caritas Burundi, part of the Caritas Internationalis Catholic charity, was able to visit the affected area recently.
In their report, Caritas say that the death toll has since risen to at least 20 people. They also say that the heavy rain has increased river levels in the area.
“…witnesses note that the four rivers that cross the communes of Bugarama Muhuta and in Bujumbura have burst their banks, creating enormous material damage..”
As many as 700 houses have been damaged or destroyed. Bridges, roads and crops have also been damaged. However, a thorough assessment of the damage is yet to be completed.
President Visits Affected Areas
Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza visited the affected area on Monday 30 March 2015. During his visit he requested departments responsible to make a complete assessment of the damage caused by the floods and landslides in order to facilitate support to victims.
Blocked Roads a Major Concern
The recent floods and landslides have blocked the major RN3 road in several places which has affected traffic in the area heading to or from the capital city.
In a statement made after the president’s visit, his office said that emergency work is underway to clear the RN3 road.
