Disaster Management Authority Conducts Assessment of Wind Damage in Lesotho

The Disaster Management Authority (DMA) is currently conducting a study on the impact of strong winds that affected residents last week in the districts of Mokhotlong, Leribe, Berea, Maseru, Mafeteng, and Mohale’s Hoek. This was announced by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Limpho Tau, in the National Assembly on Friday.

Mr. Tau explained that the study focuses on the number of people affected, their health, living conditions, and the extent of property damage. The winds left some residents in crisis, destroying houses and schools. Reported damage includes five buildings in Leribe, two in Mokhotlong, 15 in Berea, 36 in Maseru, 30 in Mafeteng, and 18 in Mohale’s Hoek.

He added that DMA, in collaboration with the Lesotho Red Cross and World Vision, is providing immediate assistance to the most vulnerable through a rapid response initiative. The agency is also preparing a comprehensive report with recommendations on government support for roofing and house reconstruction.

Mr. Tau said DMA will offer public education and training to ensure houses are built to withstand climate change. He highlighted that during the last financial year, the government rehabilitated and reconstructed 143 houses for Basotho. Of these, 24 were in Maseru, 22 in Mohale’s Hoek, 13 in Berea, 20 in Mafeteng, 14 in Leribe, 10 in Thaba-Tseka, 14 in Quthing, four in Mokhotlong, and two in Botha-Bothe.

The current assessment aims to guide government action, improve safety, and strengthen communities against future climate-related events.