Severe Storms Leave Over 600 Pupils Without Classrooms, 50 Families Homeless in Busia and Buvuma

A series of violent storms characterized by heavy rains, strong winds, and hailstones has wreaked havoc in Busia and Buvuma districts. The severe weather has left more than 600 pupils without classrooms and rendered over 50 families homeless after destroying their houses and agricultural livelihoods.

In Busia District, four primary schools—Magale, Makunda, Butangasi, and Masafu—bore the brunt of the disaster. Magale Primary School emerged as the hardest hit, with roof structures blown off two classroom blocks, forcing roughly 300 pupils to study outdoors. School administrators reported that essential educational resources, including teachers’ preparation materials and textbooks, were completely ruined.

Local authorities in Busia, led by District Vice Chairperson Florence Sifuna, attributed part of the widespread destruction to severe environmental degradation. Ms Sifuna noted that rampant tree-felling left classroom blocks entirely exposed to intense winds, prompting calls for a district-wide tree-planting initiative in public schools.

Meanwhile, in Buvuma District, more than 50 families in Kasaali and Kasansa villages lost their homes after a fierce evening hailstorm collapsed walls and stripped iron sheets off houses. Several residents sustained injuries, including Racheal Mutebe, who was hospitalized with back and chest injuries after her permanent house collapsed on her. Displaced families have resorted to seeking shelter in local churches and with neighbors.

The storms also heavily impacted agricultural fields, destroying maize and cassava crops and killing domestic animals. Farmers and local leaders have expressed deep concern over potential food insecurity and rising food prices. Sub-county leaders are appealing to the Office of the Prime Minister and well-wishers for urgent intervention, requesting iron sheets and construction support to help affected communities rebuild.

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