Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has made the decision to cut short her attendance at the COP28 climate summit in order to address the deadly floods and landslides affecting her country. The disaster, which struck the northern Hanang region over the weekend, has claimed the lives of at least 50 people and left approximately 5,600 people affected. Homes, infrastructure, and farmland have been damaged, posing a direct threat to the livelihoods of the affected communities.
The president’s spokesperson, Zuhura Yunus, stated that President Samia will be returning to Tanzania as soon as possible to deal with the situation. Rescue efforts are already underway, with 400 workers being deployed to the Hanang region. However, they are facing challenging conditions such as defective telecommunications and blocked roads, hindering their progress.
President Samia was among the world leaders attending the COP28 summit, dedicated to discussing climate change mitigation. Her decision to cut her trip short demonstrates the urgency and importance she places on addressing the immediate needs of her people in the face of this disaster.
In response to the tragedy, President Samia has ordered the government to cover the funeral expenses of the deceased, provide hospital fees for the injured, and offer temporary housing to those whose homes have been washed away. Tanzania’s Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Godwin Mollel, assured that medical services are being provided and that patients are making progress.
Flooding has historically been a significant natural hazard in Tanzania, affecting tens of thousands of people annually. East Africa has experienced a particularly challenging year, with floods and landslides occurring in 2023 due in part to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Just last month, Tanzania witnessed higher than usual rainfall, resulting in casualties and property damage in the main city, Dar es Salaam, as well as other areas. Crops, a vital source of livelihood for many, have been washed away, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the affected communities.
The Tanzania Meteorology Agency has issued warnings that the rainfall will continue throughout this month, indicating that the situation may worsen. It is crucial for the government to provide immediate relief and support to the affected communities and to develop long-term strategies for managing the recurring flooding. This includes investing in robust infrastructure, implementing early warning systems, and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions.
The international community must also recognize the urgency of the situation and offer support to Tanzania. Collaboration between nations is essential in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and its devastating consequences. As the COP28 summit continues, world leaders must prioritize tangible actions and commitments to ensure the protection and resilience of communities facing climate-related disasters.
President Samia’s swift response to the deadly floods and landslides demonstrates her dedication to the well-being and safety of her people. By interrupting her participation at the COP28 summit and focusing on the immediate needs of those affected, she sets an example for leaders worldwide, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing people’s lives and livelihoods in the face of environmental crises.
