Samia cuts short Dubai trip as Hanang disaster death toll rises to 60

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has shortened her trip to Dubai following Sunday’s floods disaster in Hanang District, Manyara Region, which killed at least 60 people.

State House announced on Monday that President Hassan would return home immediately to closely monitor the aftermath of the disaster, which also wounded 80 people.

The Head of State was in Dubai attending the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28), which opened on November 30 and is expected to end on December 12.

President Hassan has directed that adequate state resources be channelled into the affected area to aid in rescue and recovery efforts.

She also said the government would cover the burial costs of those killed in Sunday’s tragedy and pay for the treatment of other casualties.

President Hassan directed the relevant authorities to ensure that all those whose houses were swept away were provided with alternative shelter, according to the State House statement.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa on Monday travelled to Hanang District, where he was due to meet people affected by the disaster.

Manyara Regional Commissioner Queen Sendiga said three centres had been set up for families whose homes were destroyed by floods, adding that they would be provided with all the necessary services.

The centres are Ganana Secondary School, Katesh Primary School and Dumananga Primary School.

At least 1,150 households and 5,600 people were affected in the disaster and an estimated 750 hectares of farmland destroyed.

The worst affected areas, according to the State House statement, are Katesh, Jorodom, Ganana, Dumbeta, Gendabi, Sarijandu, Arukushuay and Sebasi.

President Samia has directed that detailed assessment be carried out and that all the relevant government departments should be represented in the affected areas and work around the clock to ensure that the situation returns to normal.