BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – Following the devastating hailstorm in the Hhohho region, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has quickly mobilised resources to aid affected communities.
The hailstorm, which struck on Friday, caused widespread destruction, leaving many homes roofless, damaging crops, and triggering power outages. NDMA Communications Manager, Magman Mahlalela, confirmed that the agency has distributed 57 tents, food parcels, and roofing materials to assist over 280 people in 132 affected households.
During an interview with EBIS national radio station’s ‘Letishisako’ morning programme, Mahlalela emphasized the urgency of providing relief to those whose homes and livelihoods were impacted.
“We are committed to providing immediate support to the families who have been affected by this disaster. To date, 57 tents have been distributed to provide shelter, food parcels have been delivered to ensure families facing food insecurity have enough to eat, and roofing materials have been provided to help begin the rebuilding process,” Mahlalela explained.
The hailstorm, which brought golf ball-sized hailstones and strong winds, left significant damage in areas such as Nkoyoyo, Mpolonjeni under Motshane Inkhundla, and Sitibeni under Mbabane West. According to preliminary assessments from NDMA, they indicated that the storm affected 132 households and displaced 657 people. It was reported that the damage to homes and agricultural activities, as well as the power outages, have caused considerable distress in the region.
In addition to the immediate relief efforts, NDMA, in collaboration with the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society (BERCS), continues to coordinate the distribution of assistance to other affected areas. Mahlalela highlighted that the agency is still working on reaching out to more households, with additional resources being mobilized to ensure that everyone affected gets the support they need.
“We urge residents who have repaired their homes to return the tents so that we can help others in need,” he said.
While the focus is currently on emergency relief, Mahlalela added that NDMA was also preparing for long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction. He said this includes rebuilding homes, restoring agricultural activities, and addressing the disruptions to essential services such as electricity. He said the NDMA’s efforts aim to restore normalcy and support affected communities as they recover from the storm’s devastating impact.
The NDMA’s swift response highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and coordinated management. Mahlalela also encouraged residents to report unmet needs and cooperate with the relief teams. Those requiring assistance can contact NDMA at +268 78064700.
