Namisindwa Landslide Cracks Widen, Threatening Over 500 Villages

Namisindwa District in eastern Uganda is facing a heightened landslide risk as ground cracks, exacerbated by recent heavy rains, continue to widen. Over 500 villages across five sub-counties, including Buwabwala, Bumumali, Tsekululu, Mukoto, and Luwa Town Council, are now under threat.

Residents have reported fresh destruction, with numerous homes developing deep fissures and farmland being buried or washed away. The expanding cracks pose a severe danger to lives and property, leading to the displacement of some families who have nowhere else to go. Local leaders are urgently appealing to the central government for immediate relief assistance and long-term mitigation strategies.

District Chairperson Emma Bwayo stated that the situation is dire, with rapid crack expansion increasing the risk significantly. Environmental experts warn that continued rainfall could worsen the disaster if no intervention is undertaken. The destruction of crops, a primary source of livelihood for many, also threatens food security and economic recovery efforts under the Parish Development Model.

Namisindwa is part of the Bugisu sub-region, an area historically prone to devastating landslides. Neighboring districts like Bududa, Bulambuli, and Sironko have also experienced numerous fatalities and displacements due to similar events over the past decade. Despite government resettlement programs, many communities remain in high-risk zones.

Namisindwa District authorities are compiling a report to request emergency support and sustainable solutions from the central government, emphasizing that action is needed before further loss of life occurs.

This story was reported by the Daily Monitor.