On Monday, a violent hailstorm ravaged Nyarushanje Sub-County in Rukungiri District, leaving residents grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains that decimated their crops. The storm particularly devastated agricultural areas, including Bwanga, Ruyonza, Kabuga, Ndago, Kimera, and Nyabushenyi, raising significant concerns about food security in the region.
The hailstorm destroyed gardens of growing beans, banana plantations, and other vital crops. Byamugisha Abert, a local bodaboda driver from Katibotobo cell, described the storm’s force, stating, “It was incredibly strong, and it wiped out everything.” He urged the government to provide immediate relief, including beans and posho, to assist affected families.
Kabandize Godwin, a resident of Shenga cell in Bwanga Parish, echoed these sentiments. He lamented the loss of his tomato plantations, which served as a crucial source of income and food for his family.
“This was my only way of survival,” he said, calling for urgent government support as their cassava and banana crops were also destroyed.
Ian Nasasira, the youth chairperson of Nyarushanje Sub-County, highlighted the widespread worries among residents about their food situation. He appealed for swift government action to provide essential supplies, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
Chairperson LC 3, Mr. Musiime Michael, counselled residents acknowledging the severity of the situation. He noted that the storm not only obliterated crops but also damaged roads, complicating rescue and recovery efforts stating that the community must remain hopeful, urging them to trust that the government will eventually respond, even if there are delays.
Residents also face the ongoing threat of landslides during the rainy season, compounding their challenges. As the community navigates this crisis, they remain resilient, relying on the promise of assistance to help them rebuild and recover from this devastating event.
