Scores dead and Properties lost in Mount Muhabura landslides

By Alex Gahima

Residents of Muramba and Nyarusiza Sub counties in Kisoro district are counting huge losses following heavy down pour of rain last evening along the Mountain Slopes of Mount Muhabura.

The rains, which lasted several hours into the night were compounded by landslides that have since claimed the lives of several people.

Voice of Muhabura has learnt from different sources that, up to seven people were today morning discovered, buried under the debris of boulders and mud.

Among those believed to be dead include two minors from the Batwa community of Rukeri village.

Several people are still missing and others are believed to be trapped under debris.

At Bezeyi village, Kolanya trading center, Rukongi parish, Nyarusiza Sub county, five people, mostly minors are said to be still trapped under demolished buildings.

These people include Gerida Muhawenimana 4 years, Ngabire Ivan 2 years, Claudine Uwizeyimana, 30 year old Rwandan national, Ntezandekura 5 yrs, Joshua Eradukunda 11 years and Nsenga John.

The Kisoro Resident District Commissioner, the health department and Red Cross Kisoro branch today morning held an emergency meeting at the Kisoro district headquarters before rushing to Nyarusiza.

The teams have since urged the public to get spades and hoes to dig where they believe their loved ones to be stuck or buried under ground.

The Nyarusiza LCV councilor Johns Mfitumukiza says the Uganda People’s Defense forces (UPDF) have been assisting in the excavation since last night.

Mfitumukiza says the situation is worrying as people are still trying to trace their loved ones while others are counting losses since their houses have been completely destroyed.

According to the Uganda National Meteorological authority, six hourly weather forecast of 6:00am to 12:00 noon, Kigezi region cluster comprising of Kisoro, Kabale, Rukungiri and Kanungu was meant to experience sunny intervals with temperatures of 21° Celsius.

During this time of the year, communities in Kisoro are harvesting and dry beans.

Another Bududa

Landslides in Bududa, located in the eastern region of Uganda have always been a phenomena for residents and Government alike.

Nyarusiza and Muramba Sub counties have over the years experienced similar catastrophes leaving people displaced and properties destroyed.

Kisoro district local Government, has in the past, failed to offer lasting solutions.