Hundreds of families left homeless following heavy rains

Torrential rains have destroyed hundreds of homes in various areas of Burundi, particularly along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

"The victims of the catastrophe urgently need tents and food," said Prosper Banzambe, an official in Gatumba, a border town on the outskirts of Burundi's capital, Bujumbura.

Banzambe said at least 450 homes were destroyed in Gatumba by late Wednesday. Schools and crops were also destroyed, according to other reports. In the Imbo region, bordering Lake Tanganyika, an official said 300 homes were demolished. Other reports include 100 homes destroyed at Kinyinya Hill, 100 at Waribondo Hill, 26 at Mushasha and 24 at Muyange.

Local leaders have been making lists of families affected by the rains with the intention of presenting them to aid agencies.