Today, the United States has authorized the immediate provision of $100,000 of disaster relief in response to flooding and landslides in the Manyara Region of Tanzania that has resulted in the tragic deaths of over 70 Tanzanians, damaged hundreds of acres of farmland, and displaced thousands of other people. The emergency humanitarian assistance provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through the World Food Program, will support the Government of Tanzania's ongoing, robust response to the natural disaster in the northern region of the country. USAID and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to provide additional support as needed.
“We grieve with Tanzanians across the country at this tragic loss of life and livelihoods,” said U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania Michael Battle. “The thoughts and prayers of the entire U.S. Mission to Tanzania are with all those impacted by this natural disaster. The United States stands by our longtime friend and partner Tanzania at this time.” Ambassador Battle added: “The U.S. government commends the Government of Tanzania for its strong leadership and prompt actions to mitigate the disaster and support the people in the Manyara region.”
Heavy rainfall has affected areas of northern Tanzania since mid-October during the October-to-December rainy season, causing flash flooding, overflowing rivers, and landslides. On December 2, a landslide struck Katesh village in western Manyara’s Hanang District, resulting in the majority of the reported damage. The landslide also damaged public infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and communication and water supply systems.
For more information about this press release, please contact the U.S. Embassy Tanzania Press Office at DPO@state.gov.
