By: Uakutura Kambaekua – OKANGWATI
More than 200 goats died, leaving numerous families in limbo, while some were left homeless last week after floods swept through the Epupa constituency and some parts of Opuwo urban constituency in the Kunene region.
Families living in Ombaka, Okarukoro, Oukongo and Opuwo lost their livestock and homes due to heavy rainfall that has been recorded in the region from last week.
The floods left a heavy trail of destruction, and residents lost their belongings while leading to blockage of some drainage systems, and roads have been rendered impassible.
In an interview with the Villager on Monday, Epupa constituency councillor Tjimutambo Kuuoko stated that at least 251 goats were killed after heavy rains wreaked havoc last Friday at Ombaka, Oukongo and Okarukoro. More than 15 gardens were also flooded in the process.
Kuuoko also noted that of the 251 goats, 210 belonged to one farmer (Kapiringi Ngombe). He said that a river allegedly swept the goats after seeking refuge in a tree in a dry river and that the water only came later from the other side of the village due to heavy rains experienced elsewhere.
“The other goats were stricken by lightning. This is a calamity because the animals have survived a long dry spell only to die from heavy rainfall,” he added.
Kuuoko stated that even though rainfall is progressing well in his constituency, turning Epupa green, it has left a trail of destruction en route.
“It is a very unfortunate incident for these farmers to lost their gardens and livestock. Most people farmers are the dilemma of damaged properties and crops,” he said, adding that families’ livelihoods were scattered in the process.
He further called on the county and national government to help those who lost their animals to restock as this was their only means of livelihood while also urging good samaritans to assist those who lost their homes and gardens in whichever way possible.
The councillor also promised that the government will chip in and help the families to cushion their livelihoods.
Kuuoko further cautioned parents to desist from sending children to tend to livestock, especially during the rainy season as they might get lost, drown or swept in rivers as a result of the heavy storms being experienced in the region as of recent.
Last Friday’s heavy rains also affected more than 40 households in Opuwo. However, no loss of life was recorded despite the disasters.
Opuwo urban constituency councillor Ueutjerevi Ngunaihe told The Villager that a group of people stormed his office to report on Saturday.
He said these incidences would be addressed through professional channels.
Red Cross Namibia Kunene regional officer Verikouje Ndundu said that the Red Cross Society also received the reports, but they will only attend to the situation once it gets out of hand. “We received the reports, but we always advise our people to first report the incidents to the police in order for us to do a thorough investigation before sending our findings to the head office where assistance is being channelled from.
The weather projections indicate that more flash floods are expected for the remainder of the week.
