MUGABE R
Several families in Buhunga Sub County, Rukungiri District have been displaced after a severe hailstorm destroyed their homes.
The rare and powerful hailstorm, which struck around 5 p.m., affected the parishes of Buhunga, Bwanda, and Kyaruyenje, damaging crops such as beans, cassava, potatoes, and coffee. Many homes in the area were also left without roofs as their iron sheets were severely damaged.
Grace Kyarimpa, a resident of Ryamityari Cell, recounted how she was injured during the storm after her roof was destroyed. She is now seeking shelter with neighbors, along with her four children.
Hellen Baragaine, a resident of Rugando Cell, also sustained injuries when her roof was destroyed. She expressed concern about food shortages, as her garden was destroyed, leaving her children without adequate nutrition.
Angyerica Kembabazi, another resident of Rugando Cell, called for relief food, emphasizing that the hailstorm had destroyed her gardens.
Gerevazio Kwebuuza, a businessman in Rusheshe trading center, urged the government to assist, noting that people have lost all their belongings, including property they had rented. He also highlighted the urgent need to pay school fees for their children.
Cosma Ahimbisibwe, a businessman from Ryamityari Trading Center, echoed the plea for government support, lamenting that the community relies heavily on farming for food security and income generation. He added that many farmers have lost their investments due to the hailstorm.
Benon Mugisha, the LC3 Chairperson of Buhunga Sub County, offered words of comfort, reminding the affected residents that they are not alone. He confirmed that the Agricultural Advisory Service providers are currently registering those impacted and called on the government to provide emergency aid to save lives.
