Mbeya.A 55-year-old man, Hamis Kalyembe of Lupepo, Rungwe District, is reported to have committed suicide after losing three grandchildren in a landslide caused by heavy rains. Two other children died in separate incidents.
The rain, which fell on the night of 25 March, killed more than 20 people and injured several others, leaving many residents homeless after their houses were destroyed.
In one family, four people—including a father, mother, child, and grandchild—were killed, while other families lost three children each.
Speaking about the incident, Kalyembe’s son, Israel Kajise, said his father returned home after hearing of the deaths and drank poison made from dried leaves, known locally as “parakwata.”
“He could not bear the grief. It is a very sad time for our family, and we ask the government for support during this period,” Kajise said.
Lupepo sub-village chairman Lusajo Mwafyela said more than six people died in his area. He added that around 13 houses were destroyed, leaving residents without shelter.
“Government assistance is needed for those who lost property, homes, and family members. This is a major loss for our community,” he said.
In a separate incident, two children also died, including five-year-old Naufal Juma, a pupil at Ummu Salama Primary School, whose body was found floating in the Isonte River in Mbeya City.
Senior Fire Officer for Mbeya Region, Malumbo Ngata, said the incidents occurred between 30 and 31 March in different parts of the city. He warned residents to exercise caution as the rains continue.
In Mbarali District, over 300 people were affected by heavy rains on 17 March, which destroyed homes, livestock, and road infrastructure.
Resident Jenifa Mwabebe of Matono sub-village said the rain destroyed crops, houses, and roads, urging government support.
Matono sub-village chairman Bariki Julius said 58 houses and 100 goats were affected. Iyala sub-village chairman Amidu Mkatasa said 60 households were impacted.
Mbarali District Director Raymond Mweli said 383 residents were temporarily accommodated at Iyala Primary School for humanitarian assistance.
“We extend our condolences to those affected by this disaster,” he said.
