THE death toll from devastating landslides in eastern Uganda has risen to 19, with more than 100 people still unaccounted for, according to police reports on Friday. Torrential rains triggered the landslides, which swept through villages in Bulambuli district, leaving destruction and grief in their wake.
The affected villages—Masugu, Namachele, Natola, Namagugu, and Tagalu in Buluganya sub-county—have been left in ruins, with locals resorting to basic tools like hand hoes to dig through the mud in search of missing loved ones. ‘Emergency responders are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to those affected,’ said a police spokesperson.
Challenges in rescue efforts
The rescue operations face severe hurdles due to impassable roads. Ambulances and heavy equipment such as wheel loaders are unable to reach the disaster site, delaying critical assistance. The Uganda Red Cross Society reported that at least 45 houses were completely buried, while several others suffered partial damage. The landslide devastated approximately 50 acres of land, including homesteads and farmlands sprawled across the hillside.
Heavy rains bring widespread devastation
Unusually heavy rainfall since October has caused widespread flooding and landslides across Uganda. In a condolence message on Thursday, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja expressed her sorrow for the victims’ families. She emphasised that the government has developed medium- and long-term strategies to mitigate such disasters, urging local leaders and residents in vulnerable areas to collaborate in disaster prevention efforts.
‘We must work together to avert future occurrences,’ Nabbanja stated, highlighting the need for proactive measures to protect lives and property in high-risk regions.
As the search for survivors continues, the nation mourns the loss of lives while grappling with the challenges posed by climate-induced disasters.
