Yaounde, Cameroon – (African Boulevard News) – Cameroon was struck by tragedy as torrential rain caused a devastating landslide in the Mbankolo district of Yaoundé, leaving at least 13 people dead and dozens more missing. The disaster occurred on Sunday night when a nearby lake overflowed, pushing a wall of water and mud that destroyed around 30 houses in its path.
The heavy downpour led to the lake’s overflow, triggering the destructive landslide that wreaked havoc on the community. The exact number of missing individuals remains unknown, and rescue teams are working tirelessly to find any survivors buried beneath the debris.
Local authorities are coordinating rescue and relief efforts to aid those affected by this natural disaster. Emergency services have been deployed to the scene, working against the clock to locate survivors and provide any necessary medical attention. The affected residents are being temporarily housed in nearby shelters.
Cameroon has been prone to such disasters, especially during the rainy season. The government must take necessary measures to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of its citizens. Climate change and deforestation are factors contributing to the increased vulnerability of Cameroon to landslides and other natural disasters.
Speaking on the tragic event, an expert in geology and disaster management, Dr. Sandra Mfuh, stated, “Cameroon must invest in sustainable infrastructure and implement early warning systems to mitigate the impact of such disasters. We need a comprehensive approach that includes proper land-use planning and efforts to combat deforestation.”
The landslide in Yaoundé serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for disaster preparedness and resilience strategies in Cameroon. The government, in collaboration with international partners, must emphasize proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable communities and establish effective early warning systems to prevent loss of life in future natural disasters.
The impact of this landslide has left the residents of the Mbankolo district in shock and grief. Cameroonians are coming together to support the affected families and offer condolences to those who have lost loved ones. The resilience and unity of the community will be crucial in the recovery and rebuilding process.
As the search and rescue operation continues, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are with those affected by this tragedy. The government must prioritize the safety of its citizens and take decisive action to prevent future disasters of this magnitude. It is imperative to invest in sustainable infrastructure and adopt measures that mitigate the effects of climate change.
The landslide in Mbankolo is a devastating reminder of the fragility of human life in the face of natural disasters. Cameroon must learn from this tragedy and work towards a safer and more resilient future for its citizens.
