0Sharon KavhuWindhoek - At least 106 846 have been affected by torrential rains and floods in the seven regions of Madagascar and left 170 dead as at January 30, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat has said. The torrential rains and floods have affected over 106,846 people in seven regions of the country, displacing over 16,000 people and leaving at least 170 dead, and the death toll is expected to rise, as several people are still missing,” said Dr Tax. “The heavy rains and floods have also damaged key infrastructure, including roads, houses and schools in several locations. Dr Tax urged all SADC member states to re-double efforts to strengthen disaster risk management capacities, as emphasized in the SADC Disaster Preparedness and Response Strategy adopted in 2016. "SADC appreciates the overwhelming support extended to the government of Madagascar and the affected communities by our cooperating partners, non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations on the ground.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 31, 2020 10:52 UTC