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Responding with Life-Saving Support to Families Affected by Floods in Kilosa and Mvomero, Tanzania

Flooding in Kilosa and Mvomero districts has affected an estimated 3,000 people, leaving many families displaced and without homes, livelihoods, or access to safe water. In response, Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), in partnership with the Anglican Church of Tanzania Diocese of Morogoro (ACDM) and local authorities is providing emergency assistance to affected communities.

The response is currently reaching approximately 1,500 people, prioritizing vulnerable groups including women, children, older persons, and people with disabilities. Support includes hygiene and dignity kits, tents, blankets, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, water treatment tablets, and water filters, as well as community water filtration support. 

Families Seek Shelter and Support 

At Kichangani Primary School camp in Mvomero, 67 people are currently sheltering after floods destroying their homes and livelihoods. 

Among them is Zainabu Mashaka Issa, 58, who now lives in the camp with her children and grandchildren- eight people in total including two children with disabilities. 

“My house collapsed. We lost everything including mattresses, beds and all our belongings,” she said. 

Zainabu recalled how the floods unfolded suddenly.

“I had prepared goods for my business, hoping to sell the next day. Then the rain came. It happened so fast.” 

As water levels rose, she used sign language to alert her children to escape. “I had to tell them we must leave or the water would kill us,” she said. 

Before receiving assistance, the family slept on the floor without necessities. Support from NCA has helped improve their situation, though challenges remain. 

“We are grateful, but we still need support especially for housing and starts up as we loss our farm and businesses,” she added. 

Loss and Uncertainty Across the Camp 

Other residents at the camp shared similar experiences. 

Mwanaidi Juma Lukonge lost her home and belongings.

“I couldn’t save anything. I don’t even have clothes to change. I sleep on the floor with no mattress,” she said. 

Fatuma Omary described the physical toll of sleeping on the ground. “When I sleep on the floor, my ribs hurt,” she said.  

For many families, the floods have disrupted farming and small businesses, leaving them dependent on assistance. 

Holo Mange, a mother of seven who recently gave birth, said camp conditions are especially difficult for her newborn. 

“Life here is a battle for basic dignity. My baby needs a home, not a tent,” she said. 

Across the camp, urgent needs remain, including shelter materials, bedding, clothing, cooking utensils, and access to safe water. 

Authorities and Partners Respond 

“Our priority is to ensure that affected communities receive timely and dignified support,” said Theonat Mushi, NCA Tanzania Acting Country Director.

“We are working closely with local authorities and community leaders to reach those most in need.” 

The Bishop highlighted the importance of compassion and solidarity, noting that the support provided is a reminder that affected communities are not alone, and thanked partners including Norwegian Church Aid and local authorities for their collaboration. 

Local authorities continue evacuation and response efforts. 

“Our strategy is to continue evacuating flood survivors and placing them in camps,” said Rashid Salum Juma, Councilor of Mhonda Ward, noting that 830 households have been affected in Mhonda and Sungaji wards. 

He acknowledged ongoing support efforts.

“At first people were sleeping on the floor but now they have received mattresses, blankets, and hygiene supplies. However, more support is still needed, especially food.” 

Continued Need for Support

As response efforts continue, coordination between communities, authorities, and humanitarian partners remains critical to support affected families and strengthen resilience in flood-prone areas. 

See the media links below for more information

 

Read more about our work in Tanzania

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Responding with Life-Saving Support to Families Affected by Floods in Kilosa and Mvomero, Tanzania

Flooding in Kilosa and Mvomero districts has affected an estimated 3,000 people, leaving many families displaced and without homes, livelihoods, or access to safe water. In response, Norwegian Church Aid (NCA)…

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