Diocese of Rumonge, Burundi, asks for prayer after devastating landslides

9 April 2015

The Anglican Alliance has been in touch with the Anglican Church of Burundi. The provincial development team are working with the Diocese of Rumonge to assess the situation and will share information with the Anglican Alliance as soon as the assessment is complete. 

Article from ACNS

More than 660 homes were swept away in Rutunga and Ruvumbaganya along with three schools and a health centre, and many crops were destroyed, the diocese reported.

Some 3,000 people have been left homeless, according to a BBC reporter who has been to the scene.

Roads to the capital were cut off, and access to the area remains difficult.

“Many people are in urgent need of food, blankets, kitchen utensils, medication and shelter while they wait for their houses to be repaired or rebuilt,” said Guy Nasasagare, communications officer for the Province of the Anglican Church of Burundi, after visiting the area.

Some of those affected are staying with neighbours while others have sought shelter under trees where their homes once stood, he said.

The governor of Bujumbura district, Jacques Minani, described the situation as “a disaster”, reports the AFP news agency.

The Rt Revd Pedaculi Birakengana, Bishop of Rumonge, has asked the Anglican Communion for prayer and support.

Notes

Share prayers for Rumonge on the prayer wall of the Anglican Communion website.

More photos are available on the Facebook page of the Anglican Church of Burundi.