Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has visited Bulambuli District to assess the damage caused by a landslide that has claimed at least 19 lives and left scores missing.
Accompanied by State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief, and Refugees, Lillian Aber, the premier met local leaders and residents affected by the disaster.
Triggered by a 10-hour downpour on Wednesday, the landslide buried homes, destroyed crops, and left the communities of Masugu Town Council and Kimamolo Village in Buluganya Sub-County devastated.
More than 100 residents are still unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.
During her visit, PM Nabbanja expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured survivors of the government’s support.
She pledged that rescue and relief efforts would be expedited despite significant challenges on the ground.
Rescue teams, including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), police, and local volunteers, are working to recover bodies and locate missing persons.
However, their efforts have been hampered by impassable roads and limited resources.
Locals, using rudimentary tools, have joined the search for survivors under difficult conditions.
The Uganda Red Cross Society, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and other emergency responders have provided food, shelter, and medical aid to those displaced.
On Thursday, four more bodies were recovered, bringing the death toll to 19.
Survivors have described scenes of devastation, with entire families swept away by the mudslides.
The destruction of homes and crops has compounded their suffering, leaving many unsure of how to rebuild their lives.
One resident said, “We have lost everything. Our homes, crops, and loved ones are gone, and we are left with nothing but despair.”
The tragedy has reignited calls for the government to implement long-term solutions for disaster-prone areas.
Experts and local leaders have emphasised the importance of resettlement programs and better infrastructure to mitigate the effects of natural disasters and ensure more efficient rescue operations.
Prime Minister Nabbanja reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting affected families and addressing the challenges posed by disasters. She urged citizens to remain vigilant and work together to overcome the tragedy.
As the community grieves, efforts to recover bodies and search for survivors continue.
The government has promised sustained support to rebuild lives and livelihoods shattered by the disaster.