Families left homeless in Homa Bay after hailstorm

Residents of Kochia Location counting losses after a strong wind left them homeless. 71 families were affected with property worth more than sh40m destroyed. PHOTO: JAMES OMORO

KENYA: At least 71 families were rendered homeless after strong winds blew their houses away in Homa Bay County.

The incident occurred in numerous villages in West Kochia, Rangwe constituency on Saturday evening. Victims said the incident occurred at 6pm ahead of a heavy downpour.

Kerina Akeyo, a 55-year-old widow, said the gust destroyed her whole house. She said heavy rains began in Lake Victoria before spreading to the mainland.

"The wind was blowing heavily and I thought it was like any other since there was impending heavy rainfall, but it suddenly became so strong and we could not do anything. I am still thankful to God for saving my life from the disaster," said the mother of four.

Samuel Aluoch, a victim, said he had never witnessed such strong winds in the area.

"I am not able to trace where the property is. I have lost more than Sh1 million in the incident," said Mr Aluoch. The victims said roofs of their houses were blown at least two kilometres away.

"I do not know whether my livestock have been swept into Lake Victoria because none of them has been seen since the incident took place," said Aloise Okong'o, a livestock farmer. Former Rangwe MP Ouma Muga's wife Brigita Ouma, 77, said they were on the verge of being killed by the wind.

"I had lost hope and knew my day had come to an end yesterday. I thank God for being alive today," she said.

Homa Bay County Police Commander John Omusanga said property worth more than Sh40 million was destroyed.

"I am appealing to humanitarian agencies and well-wishers to intervene and rescue these people from the tribulations afflicting them," said Mr Omusanga.