BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – The National Disaster Risk Management Authority (NDRMA) has intensified assessments and emergency response operations following destructive windy conditions that have damaged homes and schools across several parts of Eswatini.
Preliminary reports released by the Authority indicate that at least 13 households, affecting about 65 people, have already been impacted by the strong winds, with damage recorded in the Hhohho and Manzini regions.
According to the NDRMA, the Hhohho Region has been among the hardest hit, particularly under the Maphalaleni Constituency where six houses were damaged, leaving approximately 30 people affected. Additional incidents of structural damage were also reported in the Pigg’s Peak and Malanti communities.
In the Manzini Region, five households were also affected as the severe weather conditions continued to sweep across parts of the country.
The destructive winds have further disrupted learning in some communities after several schools sustained damage. The affected institutions include Themba Primary School, New Nazareth Primary School, St Paul’s Primary School, Maphalaleni Community Primary School and Gilgal Primary School.
NDRMA Communications Manager Magman Mahlalela said assessment teams remain on the ground to determine the full extent of the destruction and identify urgent humanitarian needs.
“The Authority wishes to assure the nation that assessment teams remain on the ground to establish the full extent of the damages and identify urgent humanitarian needs. Immediate relief support will continue to be provided to the affected in line with ongoing assessments and available emergency response mechanisms,” he said.
As strong winds persist in parts of the country, the Authority has urged Emaswati to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to protect lives and property.
Among the safety measures issued by the NDRMA are avoiding open fires due to the increased risk of veld fires, securing roofing sheets and loose outdoor structures, and avoiding sheltering under weak buildings, trees and billboards during strong winds.
Motorists have also been urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads, especially in areas with falling debris, dust and poor visibility.
The Authority further encouraged communities to closely monitor children and elderly people who may be more vulnerable during severe weather conditions, while farmers and livestock owners were advised to secure farming infrastructure and protect animals from dangerous exposure.
Members of the public have been encouraged to immediately report incidents such as collapsed structures and storm-related emergencies to local authorities and emergency services for urgent assistance.
The NDRMA said it continues to work closely with Government structures, local authorities and community leaders to coordinate response efforts and ensure affected citizens receive the necessary support as assessments continue nationwide.
