Partners Pull Together Amidst Struggle
Those following this blog know that a 5.7 earthquake hit Kagera Tanzania on September 10, 2016. Bishop Bagonza and Dr. Katabaro reported that they are safe physically but that people in the surrounding communities are in trauma with loss of life in Karagwe and nearby Bukoba. There is also significant property loss and damage to homes. Dr. Katabaro reported that one KARUCO classroom has a visible crack but that the water tanks, piping and newly installed connections to electricity appear sound. The campus will be inspected more completely according to reports from John Wade of MSAADA Architects of Mwanza. He stated that Samson Lugaisa of AAA Architects of Bukoba had already planned to visit KARUCO campus to inspect buildings and structures and send photo reports to MSAADA and others.
Calling all Engineers: You are invited to donate your travel and time to help inspect buildings in Karagwe.
Contact [email protected] if you can help.
This series of maps shows the epicenter of the earthquake that hit NW Tanzania
The European-Mediterrean Seismological Centre European-Mediterrean Seismological Centre reported that a 5.7 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks shook the Lake Victoria region around noon on September 10th. Tremors were felt as far as western Kenya and parts of Uganda, which also border Lake Victoria. Tremors were also felt in Kigali, Rwanda which borders Western Tanzania just across the Kagera River. Reports indicate that loss of life would have been greater if it had not been a Saturday and if schools had been in session. Regional Police Commander for Kagera Region, Mr. Augustine Olomi, said several dozen people died in Bukoba with more suspected in the outer regions of the area. The Karagwe Diocese website reported that there were two deaths in Karagwe and more suspected that have not yet reached reporting structures. Tanzania’s President, John Magufuli said he was surprised that Tanzania experienced an earthquake “that caused the death of many people, injury to others and destruction of property”. The people of Karagwe are still hoping to receive some financial support from their government beyond the presence of Regional officials attending funerals for the deceased. As stated before, engineers are invited to donate their time and travel to be part of a team to assess damages to buildings and infrastructure and thereby determine safety of dwellings and businesses. Email [email protected] if you can help.
M 5.7 – LAKE VICTORIA REGION, TANZANIA – 2016-09-10 12:27:28 UTC
Earthquake Data from the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC)
Magnitude mb 5.7 Region LAKE VICTORIA REGION, TANZANIA Date time 2016-09-10 12:27: 28.6 UTC Location 1.06 S; 31.55 E Depth10 km
Distances
191 km SW of Kampala, Uganda / pop: 1,354,000 / local time: 15:27:28.6 2016-09-10
42 km NW of Bukoba, Tanzania, United Republic of Tanzania / pop: 70,700 / local time: 15:27:28.6 2016-09-10
20 km NE of Nsunga, Tanzania, United Republic of Tanzania / pop: 20,100 / local time: 15:27:28.6 2016-09-10
Several Killed by Earthquake – Reuters
Please keep the good people of Tanzania in your heart and prayers as they pull together and move forward.