By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE:Sivumelwano Nyembe, the Spokesperson of the pro-democracy MultiStakeholder Forum(MSF) has, on behalf of the political organization,urged the State to assist victims of the recent hailstorm.

In a press statement sent to this Swaziland News on Saturday,the MSF further said, they were saddened by the natural disaster that left some emaSwati homeless on Friday afternoon.

“We extend our heartfelt sadness to all individuals,families,and communities impacted by the recent hailstorm disaster.The increasing frequency and severity of such incidents warrant a thorough national discussion on disaster response policies to better address the challenges posed by climate change.We urge the State to provide comprehensive assistance to those affected.Additionally,our heartfelt appreciation goes out to the first responders for their swift and dedicated efforts during this challenging time,” said the MSF Spokesperson through the statement.

On another note,Alpheous Nxumalo,the eSwatini Government Spokesperson said, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, officials from the National Disaster Management Agency(NDMA) and Baphalali Red Cross Society will assess the damage caused by the recent hailstorm and come-up with a comprehensive report.

In a public statement released on Saturday,the Government Spokesperson said,Government noted the serious impact of climate-change across the globe and this came at a time when the world had gathered at the Climate Change Conference, the Conference was held Dubai, the United Arab Emirates(UAE).

“Preliminary reports indicate that about seven Tinkhundla have been affected by the hailstorm, and these are Mafutseni and Mntfongwaneni in the Manzini region as well as Khubuta,Khwene,Sandleni,Hosea and Mtsambama in the Shiselweni region,”reads the statement in part, released by the Government Spokesperson.