A devastating landslide in Rungwe District, southeastern Tanzania, has resulted in 20 confirmed deaths, with authorities advising residents to evacuate as heavy rain is expected to exacerbate the situation. The disaster struck following days of heavy rainfall, which caused the earth to give way in the region. Emergency services have been deployed to the area to assist with search and rescue operations, while local authorities have been working to ensure the safety of nearby communities.
The landslide, which occurred on March 30, 2026, has prompted a state of emergency in the district, with officials emphasizing the importance of immediate evacuation to avoid further loss of life. Meteo Tanzania, the country’s meteorological service, has warned of continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, which could lead to more landslides and flooding.
The East African Community’s Humanitarian Affairs Department has expressed its readiness to provide support to the affected communities, including food, shelter, and medical assistance. The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has also been activated to coordinate relief efforts.
In a press briefing, NDMA Director General, Dr. John Kikwete, stated, “We are closely monitoring the situation and working with local authorities to ensure that all necessary resources are in place to support the affected families.”He added that the agency is coordinating with international partners to provide additional aid if needed.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of southeastern Tanzania to natural disasters, particularly during the rainy season. The region has experienced several landslides and floods in recent years, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures.
Source: Meteo Tanzania
