Heavy rains destroy 200 acres of farmland in Monduli
More than 200 acres of various crops have been destroyed by heavy rains that continue to pound in Mbaash village, Selela ward in Monduli District, Arusha Region.
Monduli District Commissioner, Idd Hassan Kimanta said the area has about 480 acres under cultivation but now large swathes have been flooded, the situation that has made their lives difficult.
This was said yesterday by DC Kimanta after visiting some of the flooded areas and added that the government in the district is already taking emergency measures to control the situation including evaluating how to divert the flooded water to save other farms.
He noted that measures include restoring communications between areas not under floods.
He said the rains that were still pounding in Arusha Region have caused extensive devastation to road infrastructure which is the main lifeline from Loliondo to Arusha City.
Acting Manager of Tanzania Rural Roads Agency (TARURA) from Monduli District Council, Eng Janeth Erasto Mhokera said due to rains the agency has embarked on deliberate steps to restore communication services in the villages, adding they have been working together with villagers to divert flooded water so as to salvage other cultivated area from floods.
She added that road contractors have also been working round the clock to repair all damaged sections of the roads.
Meanwhile, Selela Ward Secretary, Emmanueli Nitalani said the destruction of crops from the rains is extensive, the situation that has left farmers desperate.
Bibie Elikaa and Mollel Laizer, both farmers from Engaruka Ward said apart from destroyed road infrastructure, the rains also swept away many acres of their farms, the situation that immerses them deep into poverty.
The duo also asked the government to provide them with maize which they can buy at affordable prices and assist them in salvaging their crops.
They have also asked the government to provide them with seeds so that they can replant their farms with fresh crops especially at the moment when the rains are still falling.
