Uganda

Rescue operations are ongoing in eastern Uganda following devastating landslides that have buried homes in over six villages. Irene Muloni, a former Energy Minister and current Woman MP for Bulambuli District, urged authorities on Thursday (Nov. 28) to relocate residents from the disaster-stricken area. So far, 45 houses have been completely buried. At least 15 people, including 7 children, have been confirmed dead, and 113 others are still missing. “The government is working to acquire more land, but as you can see, the situation is dire. The rains are continuing, and the water is everywhere—on the hills, flowing down in waterfalls. It’s just too dangerous. People need to be moved immediately. My appeal is for the people to leave this area and stay with relatives. Let’s leave this place,” Muloni said. The landslides occurred after heavy rainfall on Wednesday night in the mountainous Bulambuli District, located about 280 kilometers east of Uganda’s capital, Kampala. This is not the first time the district has been impacted by torrential rains; last year, similar flooding caused significant loss of life. Uganda Police have ramped up rescue efforts, working alongside other security agencies and local communities. However, rescue teams are facing challenges due to impassable roads. During a rescue operation on the Nile River, two boats capsized on Wednesday while attempting to reach the submerged Pakwach Bridge.