At least 155 killed in Tanzania as heavy rains pound East Africa

The devastating effects of the rains were “primarily due to environmental degradation”, Majaliwa added, blaming deforestation, unsustainable farming practices such as “slash and burn” agriculture and unregulated livestock grazing.

More than 200,000 people and 51,000 households were affected by the rains, the prime minister noted

Flooded schools were closed and emergency services were rescuing people marooned by the floodwaters.

Majaliwa warned those living in low-lying areas to move to higher ground and urged district officials to ensure that provisions meant for those whose homes were washed away go to those in need of the supplies.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua told a press briefing that people affected by the floods would be given food and other goods, while those living in the most vulnerable areas would be relocated.

In Burundi, around 96,000 people were displaced by months of relentless rains, the United Nations and the government said earlier this month.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in an update this week that in Somalia, the “Gu” rains (from April to June) were intensifying, with flash floods reported since April 19.