Heavy rains kill 16, destroy homes and farms in Tonj state

Officials in South Sudan’s Tonj State say at least 16 people have died following heavy rains and floods in the state since August.

Officials in South Sudan’s Tonj State say at least 16 people have died following heavy rains and floods in the state since August.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday, Tonj State information minister William Wol said the 16 including women and children died in various counties of the state.

He said the deaths were mainly caused by waterborne diseases resulting from the floods.

The state official pointed out that more than 4,000 homes and people's farms have been destroyed.

Furthermore, about 60,000 people have been displaced from their homes and that they are living in open places without food and shelter, Wol said

The minister appealed to humanitarian organizations to deliver urgent assistance to the displaced people.