Kampala, Uganda – (African Boulevard News) – Eight people have lost their lives in devastating landslides in the southwestern district of Kisoro in Uganda. According to local resident Godreck Friday, the root cause behind this tragedy was the heavy rainfall, the steep terrain, and the poor agricultural practices in the region.
The landslides have caused extensive damage, burying several houses and washing away bridges and roads. The emergency teams and local authorities are working tirelessly to clear the debris and provide assistance to those affected. The situation is dire, and the residents of the area desperately need help.
The Uganda Red Cross Society has been quick to respond to the situation. They have deployed teams to the affected areas to provide first aid, search and rescue operations, and psychosocial support. A statement from the Uganda Red Cross Society said, “We are on the ground, working closely with the government and other partners to provide relief to the affected communities.”
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has also responded to the tragedy. NEMA officials have visited the site to assess the extent of the damage and offer guidance on the environmental impact of the landslides. The agency has emphasized the need for sustainable land use practices to avoid such disasters in the future.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the need for better disaster preparedness and mitigation measures in Uganda. The country is prone to natural disasters such as landslides, floods, and droughts. The government and other stakeholders must work together to ensure that communities are equipped to deal with emergencies and that they have access to the resources needed to recover from disasters.
The landslides have caused significant loss of life and property, and they highlight the need to address the root causes of such disasters. Poor agricultural practices, environmental degradation, and improper land use planning exacerbate the risks of natural disasters. The government and other stakeholders must take concrete steps to address these issues and ensure that communities are protected from the impacts of landslides and other natural disasters.
In the words of the Uganda Red Cross Society, “This is a time for solidarity and support. We call upon all stakeholders to come together and support the affected communities in Kisoro.” The tragedy in Kisoro is a somber reminder of the need for us to work together to build more resilient communities and prevent such disasters in the future.