In brief
At least 13 individuals have been confirmed dead in a landslide in eastern Uganda's Bulambuli district, with fears that the total could rise significantly. The Ugandan Red Cross is actively engaging in rescue efforts as heavy rains continue to affect the region.
A catastrophic landslide triggered by heavy rainfall in eastern Uganda has led to the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction. Initial reports from the Ugandan Red Cross Society confirmed at least 13 fatalities, with local sources indicating that the death toll may climb to 30 as search and rescue operations continue. The landslides have ravaged more than 40 homes across several villages in Bulambuli district, situated approximately 280 km (178 miles) from the capital city, Kampala. The intense rainfall over recent days has overwhelmed local infrastructure, causing rivers to overflow, resulting in the flooding of schools, bridges, and residential areas, leaving numerous communities isolated.Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja issued a disaster warning on social media platform X, informing the public that many individuals are suspected missing and may be buried under the debris. "People are feared to be buried by slides," she stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.The military has been mobilized to assist with ongoing rescue efforts. Reports revealed that two boats were deployed on Wednesday to recover a taxi trapped on a bridge; sadly, one of the vessels capsized, resulting in the tragic death of an engineer. In response to the disaster, Anitah Among, the parliamentary speaker, conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased, as the country grapples with the severe impacts of the flooding. The Ugandan Red Cross is continuing efforts to recover bodies and provide assistance to those affected, as the community comes together in this time of crisis.
