By Ugasite
The President of the National Unity Platform Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine has accused the Government of neglecting its responsibility to address recurrent landslides, following the recent disaster in Bulambuli district that claimed over 20 lives and left others trapped beneath debris.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy in Bulambuli District, where a landslide killed over 13 people, with many others still buried under rubble. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and communities affected by this calamity. We hope you find the strength and support needed during this difficult time,” Bobi Wine wrote on his X handle.
He further criticised the Government for its apparent indifference to recurring landslides. “It is disheartening that landslides continue to claim lives in Uganda each year, yet the regime has done little to tackle this persistent issue. Their priorities clearly lie elsewhere. We are coordinating with our teams on the ground to determine how best to support the affected community,” he added.
The tragedy struck on Wednesday night in Soni Village, Buluganya Sub-county, following heavy rainfall. By Friday, the confirmed death toll had risen to 20, with five additional bodies recovered. The landslide also displaced numerous families, while many individuals remain unaccounted for.
On Friday, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja visited the affected area to console grieving families, assess the situation, and announce government aid. She pledged sh5m to each family that lost a loved one for burial expenses and sh1 million for each injured survivor.
“The Government, acting under the president’s directive, has mobilised resources to retrieve all bodies. Excavators will be deployed despite the challenging weather,” Nabbanja assured, adding that equipment would be airlifted to expedite recovery operations.
Nabbanja also unveiled plans to relocate the affected residents. “In the short term, we are moving people to Nabutye for safety. For the long term, the government will provide two acres of land per family and shs 17 million per household to help them build new homes in safer areas,” she explained.
State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Lillian Aber, urged residents in high-risk zones to cooperate with relocation efforts.
“Vehicles are ready to transport residents to Nabutye, where food, non-food supplies, and medical camps will be provided. Those willing to relocate should begin boarding now,” Aber stated.
Although government officials have pledged relief and resettlement support, critics like Bobi Wine argue that consistent and preventive measures are crucial to safeguard lives in regions prone to natural disasters