A devastating landslide hit Bulambuli District in eastern Uganda on November 27, leaving 40 households completely buried and others partially damaged.
“A total of 15 bodies have been retrieved, while 15 injured people have been rescued and admitted to Buluganya Health Center III,” said Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) in a statement on Thursday night.
“Unfortunately, 113 people are still missing, but efforts are underway to locate them,” said URCS communication official, John Cliff Wamala.
Wamala said the mudslides have affected five villages in Buluganya Sub County, of Masugu, Namachele, Natola, Namagugu, and Tagalu.
“The Police together with other sister security agencies with the help of the local community have intensified rescue operations,” he added.
“That is, however, being hindered by impassable roads, which are preventing vehicles, including ambulances and wheel loaders, from reaching the scene.”
The rescue operations involve the URCS team, local authorities, and community members working together to respond to the tragedy.
The landslide comes amidst heavy rains that continue to batter the region, highlighting the adverse effects of climate change.
Response
These events also underscore the urgent need for proactive measures, including faster relocation of vulnerable communities and strengthened disaster preparedness programs
The URCS has reiterated its commitment to delivering early warning messages and providing timely support to affected communities.
“As a National Society, we remain vigilant, delivering early warning messages through our community radio networks and providing timely support to those affected,” Wamala observed.
Authorities are urging residents in affected and high-risk areas to remain alert and follow guidance issued by local leaders and disaster response teams.
This incident is part of a growing pattern of climate-induced disasters affecting various parts of the country, emphasizing the urgent need for robust climate resilience measures.
The landslide in Bulambuli District is part of a recurring pattern of climate-induced disasters in the area.
Prior to this recent incident, heavy rains and landslides displaced over 300 people in October 2024, burying more than 20 homes and rendering roads impassable.
In July 2023, another disaster left 10 dead and 500 displaced in the same region.
The ongoing rains are worsening the situation, cutting off infrastructure and leaving survivors in dire need of essentials like food, water, and shelter.
