Insiza schools blown by winds

INSIZA-A devastating storm characterised by hail and strong winds left a trail of destruction in Insiza
district where three schools were extensively damaged with some of them having their roofs blown
off last week.
There are also fears that some families might have been affected by the storm and may need
humanitarian assistance.
The three affected schools are Gumbalo, Tshazi and Avoca Primary Schools. The violent winds blew
off the roofing sheets and destroyed some furniture.
Matabeleland South Provincial Education Director Beatrice Sibusiso Manjere confirmed the sad
developments saying the situation was bad and they were assessing the extent of the damage.
The District Civil Protection Unit (CPU) chairperson Zacharia Jusa who is also the District
Development Coordinator for Insiza district, said: “Yes there was a disaster which was caused by
strong winds that blew away roofs of three of our schools namely, Avoca, Gumbalo and Tshazi
primaries.
“As CPU we are working right around the clock to refurbish the blocks. The rains are now upon us
and our school children need the roofs above their heads,” said Jusa.
Insiza Rural District Council Chief Executive Officer Shepard Tshuma also confirmed the
developments and said two other schools had experienced similar fate the previous week.
“A classroom block at Gumbalo Primary School and another one at Msithi Primary was also
destroyed. I gather Avoca and Tshazi were also affected. I am in Harare now but CPU is working on
the issue,” said Tshuma.
One villager, Sibongile Khumalo of Avoca said the school classroom blocks were old to renovate
suggesting that new ones be built.
“The damage at Gumbalo primary might need construction of new classroom block because the
affected one is too old and on the verge of collapsing. That block was mud constructed and only
plastered with cement hence it has outlived its lifespan. Instead of refurbishing it I suggest that
authorities should work towards building a new block,” said Khumalo.