More than 160 families in Rufiji District are receiving government support following a destructive windstorm that swept through parts of the area earlier this month, causing extensive damage to homes and public infrastructure.
The Member of Parliament for Rufiji Constituency and Minister for Health, Mr Mohamed Mchengerwa, on February 4, 2026 visited the affected areas to assess the damage and extend condolences to the victims of the windstorm, which occurred between February 2 and 3.
His tour included Mapinduzi Primary School, where strong winds blew off classroom roofs, and several households in Chemchem Ward, Utete.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Mchengerwa thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her continued support to Rufiji residents during times of disaster, noting that government interventions during floods and other emergencies have played a critical role in helping communities recover and resume normal life.
He said the government remains fully committed to supporting citizens affected by the disaster and urged residents to remain calm and continue trusting their government as recovery efforts progress.
According to him, the compassion and commitment shown by the leadership have strengthened public confidence, especially during difficult moments such as natural disasters.
To address immediate needs, Mr Mchengerwa donated more than 600 roofing sheets to help families whose houses were damaged, while noting that the overall requirement stands at about 2,000 sheets.
He called on well-wishers and other stakeholders to support the affected communities, saying collective efforts are needed to restore homes and public facilities.
The minister also provided various relief items, including food supplies, bedding materials, clothing, gas cylinders, school supplies and cash assistance to some of the victims, among them students, teachers and residents whose livelihoods were disrupted by the windstorm.
He further urged development partners and humanitarian actors to join the government in assisting the affected families, and directed the Rufiji District Commissioner to ensure that all relief aid is distributed fairly and reaches the intended beneficiaries.
Rufiji District Commissioner, Lieutenant Colonel Fredrick Komba, assured the minister that all assistance would be properly managed and delivered to the victims of the disaster.
One of the affected residents, Mr Yusufu Ally, expressed gratitude to the government led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, saying the timely response had brought relief and renewed hope to families as they begin rebuilding their lives.