By Spy Uganda
Tragedy has struck Masibwe Trading Center in Masibwe Village, Katebwa Subcounty, following a deadly mudslide triggered by torrential rainfall. The disaster claimed the lives of two young children and left several others injured, displacing dozens of residents and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
The heavy rains, which lasted over two hours, caused severe landslides that buried homes and farmland, leaving many families homeless. Local authorities confirmed that the hardest-hit areas include Buruma, Bunaiga, and Butyoka villages—all within Katebwa Subcounty.
According to Mr. Bright Mate, LCIII Chairperson of Katebwa Subcounty, the deceased have been identified as Mumbere Jonan, aged 5, and Muhindo Joward, aged 2½. The two children were among the most vulnerable victims as their families’ homes were overwhelmed by the mudslide.
The disaster has added to the growing humanitarian crisis in the district, with local leaders expressing deep concern over the rising number of displaced residents now sheltering at the subcounty headquarters.
Mr. Ategeka James, the LCV Chairperson of Bunyangabu District, described the situation as dire. He appealed to the government, particularly the Office of the Prime Minister, to provide emergency relief aid to the affected families.
“The district has been experiencing recurring disasters. Many people are now displaced, and we are overwhelmed. We call upon the Office of the Prime Minister to provide urgent relief assistance,” said Mr. Ategeka.
He noted that Bunyangabu is increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters, and the district lacks the capacity to adequately respond to the growing humanitarian needs.
Survivors of the mudslide are mourning their loved ones and grappling with the destruction of their homes and livelihoods. Muhyana Joab, a grieving parent, and Ms. Alice Mutsuba, a resident of one of the affected villages, voiced fears of an impending hunger crisis. Much of the community’s farmland was destroyed, wiping out vital food supplies and leaving residents uncertain about the coming months.
“We have lost our homes and crops. Hunger is now our biggest fear,” said Ms. Mutsuba.
Katebwa Subcounty has a history of such devastating mudslides. In May of last year, a similar disaster claimed four lives and caused significant damage to property. With the frequency and severity of these events increasing, local leaders are urging the government to implement long-term solutions, including resettlement programs and comprehensive disaster preparedness strategies.
The latest mudslide has reignited conversations about the urgent need to address factors contributing to the district’s vulnerability, including deforestation, poor land management, and inadequate drainage systems. Experts warn that the effects of climate change are exacerbating such disasters, leaving communities in mountainous regions increasingly exposed to danger.
