The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has on Thursday confirmed the recovery of 13 bodies following a devastating landslide in Bulambuli District.
The disaster, triggered by heavy rains on November 27, affected several villages, including Masubu, Nameche Trading Centre, Mamono, Tangalu, Buzemulili, and Masoola in Buluganya Sub-county.
According to John Cliff Wamala, the URCS communications officer, the landslide also completely buried 40 households, leaving others partially damaged.
“As a National Society, we remain vigilant, delivering early warning messages through community radio networks and providing timely support to those affected,” Wamala said.
URCS teams, in collaboration with local authorities and trained first responders, are currently conducting a Rapid Needs Assessment to determine the next steps for relief efforts.
Widespread Impact in Mountain Elgon Region
The landslides are part of a larger pattern of devastating environmental challenges in the Mountain Elgon subregion, where adverse effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent. Over the years, landslides have caused severe destruction in the area, with heavy rains saturating the soil and increasing risks for residents.
In 2023 alone, 390 households were severely affected by landslides in the region, including communities along the ridge spanning Masugu, Tagalu, Namakyire, Buzamolile, Nayinya, Masabasi, Namango, Maduwa, Lula, Lusola, Nakakyele, Mamolo, Nakisikiro, Masola, Masola Trading Centre, and Lukungiri. A total of 2,730 people in Buluganya and Mabugu Parishes were directly impacted.
This latest calamity has claimed five lives, left seven injured, and displaced 328 individuals, with women and children being the most affected. Additionally, 71 homes have been buried in mud, leaving many residents in dire need of assistance.
Heightened Risk of Future Landslides
The high-altitude zones in the region remain particularly vulnerable, as the soggy ground and water seeping from various points indicate an increased likelihood of future landslides. Experts warn that without robust mitigation efforts, the area will continue to face recurring disasters, putting lives and livelihoods at risk.
Efforts by URCS and other stakeholders to deliver early warnings and provide aid to affected communities are critical to reducing the impact of such disasters in the future.
