Kenya extends helping hand to Tanzania after weekend earthquake

President Uhuru Kenyatta has disclosed that Kenya will send a donation of iron sheets, blankets and mattresses to assist earthquake victims in Tanzania.

A press release from the presidency stated that the relief items will be airlifted by the Kenya Defence Forces on Tuesday. President Kenyatta phoned his Tanzanian counterpart, John Pombe Magufuli to express solidarity and sympathy for the disaster that struck over the weekend.

“I have learnt with deep sorrow and regret the loss of sixteen precious lives, injury to hundreds of our Tanzanian brothers and sisters, as well massive destruction of property and livelihoods following the devastating earthquake in Bukoba District, in North Western Tanzania,” Kenyatta told Magufuli during the phone call.

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He added: “On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I extend heartfelt condolences and sympathies to Your Excellency, the Government and people of Tanzania, and particularly to the grieving families.”

The 5.7 magnitude hit northwest Tanzania on Saturday afternoon at a depth of 10km. It led to the loss of lives, injuries and destruction of property resulting from the earthquake that affected the region on Saturday. The tremor hit Bukoba close to the western shore of Lake Victoria and Nsunga in the northeast.

Kenyatta further wished those injured quick recovery and prayed to God to comfort the bereaved families.