Torrential rains displace thousands in Bubanza

Thousands of people urgently need aid after their homes and crops were destroyed on Sunday following torrential rains in Rugazi Commune in Burundi's northwestern province of Bubanza, a local official told IRIN on Friday. The administrator of Rugazi, Déo Manirakiza, said the rains had displaced some 2,500 households, comprising an estimated 10,000 people. "The rains also destroyed fields of beans and legumes," he said. He added that Ruce and Rugazi zones were the most affected areas. He said those whose crops were destroyed needed seeds in order to plant afresh, and appealed to humanitarian agencies for help. "We have already identified the people who need assistance," he said. "A request will be submitted to aid agencies and we hope to get seeds as soon as possible."