Residents Demand Swift Gov't Action After Landslides in Bundibugyo

Residents of Bundibugyo district have urgently called for a government response to the road networks destroyed by recent landslides and heavy rainfall. Last month, heavy rains led to significant mudslides that damaged the Kikyo-Bundibugyo road, a crucial route linking Bundibugyo town to the mountainous areas. Landslides have also impacted major road infrastructure in Mbatya Sub County.

Alfred Baluku, a boda boda rider in Kikyo trading center, noted that the destruction of these vital roads has severely affected traders transporting their agricultural produce. "As we speak, riding you from the town to Kikyo, you pay me 8,000 from the initial 5,000 shillings because I have to use alternative routes," Baluku said, highlighting the increase in fares due to poor infrastructure. 

Gilbert Bwambale expressed concern over the deteriorating road network, especially in Bughendera County, which has worsened with the heavy rains, impacting traders and school-going children. He appealed to local leaders and the government to improve infrastructure in the area. Robert Muhindo, the Bundibugyo district engineer, urged the community to avoid cultivating on the slopes, explaining that poor farming practices are exacerbating the risk of landslides.

Moses Acrobert Kiiza, the Bughendera County Member of Parliament, stated that a report has been submitted to the government and the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) requesting emergency infrastructural works, particularly on the Ntandi-Kikyo-Bundibugyo road.

Bundibugyo district has a history of natural disasters, often resulting in loss of life and destruction of property. In 2023, over 200 families were displaced due to landslides and sinking land, which caused fatalities in four parishes: Nyankiro, Katumba, Bundikeke, and Bundibuturo, as well as parts of Bundibugyo town council.

In September, Richard Gafabusa, the Member of Parliament representing Bwamba County, raised concerns during a parliamentary sitting, urging the government to send geoscientists to the district to investigate the recurring landslides. 

In response, Lilian Aber, the Minister of State for Relief and Disaster Preparedness, stated that an intergovernmental committee has been established to address the recurrent floods in Bundibugyo, Ntoroko, and Kasese districts.