Mafabi slams government for failing to respond to disasters
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) secretary general Nathan Nandala Mafabi has expressed sorrow over the devastating loss of lives and destruction caused by landslides in Bulambuli and Sironko Districts.
Triggered by heavy rains, the disasters have claimed lives, displaced families, and destroyed property.
Keep Reading
In a condolence message on Thursday, Mafabi extended sympathies to the affected families and called for urgent measures to aid survivors and mitigate future disasters.
“This heartbreaking loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods during every rainy season has become an all-too-familiar tragedy in our country,” Mafabi stated.
He emphasised the recurring nature of such disasters and the urgent need to address their root causes.
Mafabi criticised the government’s lack of a structured response mechanism and called for immediate intervention.
“It is unacceptable that even in the aftermath of such disasters, it is often the initiative of locals to recover the bodies of their loved ones,” he said.
He urged the establishment of a well-equipped, rapid-response disaster rescue team to manage emergencies effectively.
The FDC Secretary General highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness, resettlement programs for communities in high-risk areas, and the implementation of early warning systems.
“As leaders, let us focus on lasting solutions to prevent the recurrence of these tragedies. Together, we must ensure that no family has to endure this kind of loss again,” Mafabi emphasised.
On Wednesday, landslides swept through Kimono Village in Buluganya Sub-county, Bulambuli District, leaving scores dead and others homeless.
On Thursday, police confirmed that 15 bodies, including those of seven children, had been retrieved.
Additionally, 15 injured individuals were rescued and admitted to Buluganya Health Centre III, with some referred to Muyembe Health Centre III.
However, police noted that rescue operations remain hampered by impassable roads, limiting access to affected areas.
“The Police, together with other sister security agencies and local communities, have intensified rescue operations, but impassable roads are preventing vehicles, including ambulances, from reaching the scene,” police said.
The landslides have affected five villages in Buluganya Sub-county, including Masugu, Namachele, Natola, Namagugu, and Tagalu.
Relentless heavy rains have left the region prone to landslides, with Bulambuli’s highland terrain particularly at risk.
The situation has reignited calls for better disaster preparedness and sustainable measures to protect communities.
Faheera Mpalanyi, the Resident District Commissioner of Bulambuli, said her office was working with local authorities and rescue teams to assist survivors and recover bodies.
“We are coordinating with local authorities and rescue teams to assist survivors and recover bodies. This is a catastrophic situation,” Mpalanyi said.
