PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa yesterday handed over 109 houses to families hit by the massive landslide late last year in Hanang District, Manyara Region.

Addressing residents at the area, the premier said that the houses were built by the government, working with the Tanzania Red Cross and the women’s wing of the ruling party, on a wide plot at Wareti in the district.

“Following the disaster, 109 houses needed to be urgently rebuilt. In response to the severe impact, the government initiated construction projects that reflect commitment to standing with citizens during times of hardship,” he said.

The government had allocated 1.38bn/- for the provision of electricity, water and reliable roads, he said, underlining that each house handed over will be connected to the services.

Hanang District Council leaders need to coordinate finding additional plots in the area to further develop the housing plan, he said, underlining government wish that the area is recognised not just as a settlement for disaster victims, but as a village with all necessary social services.

It will serve as a model for economic and social development for the wider community, he said, after William Lukuvi, the Policy, Parliament and Coordination state minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) hailed President Samia Suluhu Hassan for guidance and leadership in the wake of the landslides.

“The construction of these houses is the result of her vision. She has also provided 109 gas stoves, which will be distributed to the residents here,” he told the gathering.

Lucia Sebastian, the TRCS secretary general, said that the 35 houses built by TRCS reflect the spirit of unity, as the beneficiaries are fellow Tanzanians. "Together, we have provided homes, peace and security to these families, helping to rebuild their lives. The TRCS’s involvement in this process has been driven by our commitment to supporting communities during times of crisis or emergency," she elaborated.

After visiting the area affected by the landslides, President Samia stated on her social media platforms building houses will help those affected to return to normal life after lost one or more relatives and plenty of property.

The landslide on Mount Hanang killed more than 85 people, triggered by heavy rainfall, where soil above a hard rock surface slid on the mountain slope, cascading towards Katesh township.

Experts said that the flooding followed a period of severe drought, leaving the soil drier and less able to retain water.