By ACNS staff, based on reports from the Anglican Church of Burundi and the BBC

The Anglican Diocese of Rumonge in Burundi has asked for prayer after heavy rains on 22 March and 5 April triggered landslides that have killed more than 14 people and caused significant property damage some 35km south of the capital Bujumbura.

More than 660 homes were swept away in Rutunga and Ruvumbaganya along with three schools and a health centre, and many crops were destroyed, the diocese reported.

Some 3,000 people have been left homeless, according to a BBC reporter who has been to the scene.

Roads to the capital were cut off, and access to the area remains difficult.

“Many people are in urgent need of food, blankets, kitchen utensils, medication and shelter while they wait for their houses to be repaired or rebuilt,” said Guy Nasasagare, communications officer for the Province of the Anglican Church of Burundi, after visiting the area.

Some of those affected are staying with neighbours while others have sought shelter under trees where their homes once stood, he said.

The governor of Bujumbura district, Jacques Minani, described the situation as "a disaster", reports the AFP news agency.

The Rt Revd Pedaculi Birakengana, Bishop of Rumonge, has asked the Anglican Communion for prayer and support.

Notes

Share prayers for Rumonge on the prayer wall of the Anglican Communion website.

More photos are available on the Facebook page of the Anglican Church of Burundi.