Tanzania, Dar es Salaam Grapples with Devastating Floods

The bustling commercial hub of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, has been plunged into chaos by two days of relentless downpours, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. As the city grapples with the aftermath of the floods, homes lie submerged, bridges have crumbled, and roads now resemble swollen rivers, painting a grim picture of devastation.

The floods have not spared key infrastructure either, with iconic landmarks like Kunduchi Bridge and Panya Boyi Bridge succumbing to the unforgiving waters. These vital connections between city districts have been severed, disrupting the lives of countless residents. Power lines hang precariously, plunging neighbourhoods into darkness, while transportation networks remain choked with debris and raging torrents.

Those living closest to the rivers have borne the brunt of the disaster, with their homes inundated, possessions lost, and families forced to flee their waterlogged havens. Rescue efforts are underway, with heroic responders plucking stranded residents from rooftops and navigating flooded streets using makeshift boats.

Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander Jumanne Muliro has confirmed the extensive damage to bridges and roads, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid flooded areas. The concern is echoed by Mbagala Constituency legislator Abdallah Chaurembo, who reports widespread roof damage and displaced families.

This disaster is a grim realisation of the Tanzania Meteorological Authority’s (TMA) forecasts, with heavy rain and 40km/h winds battering 13 regions, including Dar es Salaam. Alongside the torrential downpours, two-meter waves churn relentlessly along the Indian Ocean coast, adding to the city’s woes.

The stories of those affected are heartbreaking. Shaban Manamba, a Tegeta Darajani resident, recounts his harrowing escape with his family as floodwaters engulfed his home. Nearby guesthouses have been reduced to ruins, washed away by the relentless tide. Veronika Simon, another Tegeta resident, lost everything, her house swept away, leaving her and her three children with nowhere to turn.

In the midst of this devastation, residents are pointing fingers at leaders who own vast expanses of undeveloped land while families struggle to find affordable housing. They are calling for equitable land distribution, highlighting the urgent need for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s intervention.

Beyond the personal tragedies, the floods inflict economic damage, with businesses and livelihoods hanging in the balance. Mohammed John, a Mbezi Beach bricks trader, mourns over 6,000 bricks damaged by the deluge. Pastor Thobias Lubeda lost his church to the rampaging waters, with valuables like computers washed away.

Yet amidst the destruction, the resilience and community spirit of the people shine through. Neighbours are banding together to help each other in the face of adversity, reflecting the strength and unity of the residents of Dar es Salaam.

The rains show no signs of abating, and the full extent of the damage is still unfolding. The city finds itself in the midst of a humanitarian crisis, with displaced families and crippled infrastructure. As the floodwaters slowly recede, the monumental task of rebuilding and recovery looms large on the horizon, reminding us of the city’s indomitable spirit and determination.