Why are landslides in Uganda becoming an increasingly deadly threat, and what is being done to prevent future catastrophes? The recent tragedy in eastern Uganda, where at least 15 people have died and over 100 are missing after landslides buried homes in six villages, has highlighted the growing risks of climate change, poor infrastructure, and inadequate disaster preparedness.
What is behind this surge in deadly landslides, and what more can be done to protect vulnerable communities in the future?
The heavy rains that triggered the landslides on Wednesday night caused widespread destruction in Bulambuli District, about 280 kilometers east of Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The landslides buried 40 homes and swept away entire families, leaving at least 15 people injured and sending dozens to the hospital. As the search for the missing continues, local officials are bracing for a potentially higher death toll, with reports indicating that the bodies of children are among the victims recovered so far.
So, what is being done to manage this crisis? Authorities have brought in an excavator to assist with rescue operations, but roadways remain blocked by mud and ongoing rainfall, complicating efforts to reach survivors. Meanwhile, photos and videos on social media show people desperately digging through the rubble in search of victims as the mudslides entirely engulf their homes. How will authorities overcome these logistical challenges, and how can they ensure faster and more effective responses in the future?
The situation is further complicated by Uganda’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, with increased rainfall in recent years due to climate change exacerbating the frequency and severity of natural disasters. The disaster in Bulambuli has prompted local officials to call for immediate action, with District Woman MP Irene Muloni urging the government to relocate residents from these landslide-prone areas. She pointed to the region’s steep terrain and frequent rainfall as factors that make the area especially dangerous. Could this be the wake-up call for the government to adopt long-term solutions to safeguard communities living in disaster hotspots?
Yet, how realistic is relocation in a country already struggling with limited resources? Where can these displaced populations go if large areas of Uganda are increasingly affected by extreme weather? And what other measures could help mitigate the risks of landslides and flooding?
The landslides in Bulambuli also raised broader concerns about the country’s emergency response capabilities. Two rescue boats capsized during a mission on the River Nile, highlighting the logistical and infrastructural challenges faced during rescue operations. Can Uganda improve its disaster response and recovery plans to prevent further loss of life and better protect its citizens in future crises?
The government has issued a disaster alert and is working to coordinate relief efforts. Still, many wonder if the country’s emergency preparedness is sufficient to handle the growing frequency of such events. With climate change continuing to intensify extreme weather patterns, how prepared is Uganda for the rising threat of natural disasters, and what steps can be taken to protect vulnerable communities from the devastating impacts of future landslides and flooding?
