Vice President Mutale Nalumango has visited flood victims in Lumezi who were displaced days ago, and currently being sheltered at Kazembe Primary School.
In her address to the over 70 families, the Vice President assured them of the Government’s continued support, while long-term solutions are being sought.
“You are already receiving support through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) in terms of food supply. More support will be rendered in this regard,” the Vice President said.
She also said tents will be supplied to the victims.
Ms Nalumango further called on citizens in flood-prone areas to relocate to higher grounds.
“For areas that are prone to disasters, our call is that you move. You might maintain those areas for other activities, but not for settlement, as it is risky,” she noted.
Furthermore, the Vice President expressed the government’s sadness over the loss of a life in the course of the disaster.
“I have been sent by President Hakainde Hichilema to see what is obtained on the ground. The President is also sorry for the life that was lost during this time,” she said.
And Chief Kazembe has appreciated the government for the timely assistance rendered to the flood victims.
The traditional leader said a total of 25 villages have been affected.
He further called on the government to help the affected families with inputs, as they had also lost their crop in the disaster.
“My appeal is that you provide these people with seed and fertiliser, so that they can cultivate and recover their loss,” he said.
He noted that there was still time to plant again.
The sentiments were also shared by the victims, as they recounted their predicament.
In an interview, Misozi Thole, one of the victims, shared that she lost everything in the house.
She explained that her house was submerged in the night, losing foodstuff and household goods, among other valuables.
Another victim thanked the Vice President for visiting and interacting with the affected people.
“We are comforted by this visit, knowing that our leaders care about us,” Webster Phiri said.
