By KT Reporter
Authorities in the Sebei sub-region have warned residents living in landslide-prone areas to move to safer grounds immediately, as persistent heavy rains continue to increase the risk of mudslides and floods. The warning follows several days of rainfall that have raised river levels and destabilized mountain slopes across Bukwo, Kapchorwa, and Kween districts.
Last week, a minor landslide in Kapchorwa Municipality blocked the main access road from Kaptanya Sub County, disrupting transport and access to essential services. Samuel Chemusto, Kapchorwa District Senior Environment Officer, said communities near riverbanks and mountain slopes are particularly vulnerable, with children and families at greatest risk. He urged immediate relocation to prevent loss of life.
Merisa Cheptegei, the LC V Chairperson of Bukwo District, highlighted Kapsekek, Riwo, and other mountainous areas as high-risk zones, calling on the District Disaster Management Committees to intensify community sensitization and early warning campaigns. “Prevention is better than cure,” she emphasized.
Hope Atuhaire, Resident District Commissioner for Kween, echoed the call, urging residents in vulnerable areas such as Kizito, Benet, and Cheberen to report to local authorities for timely relocation. “Life is worth protecting. If possible, stay with relatives in safer places and avoid cultivating near high-risk zones,” she advised. Climate change activists have joined efforts to raise awareness. Dismas Cheptoek, a project officer at AidEnvironment, said sensitization campaigns are underway across the Sebei sub-region to help communities detect and respond to natural disaster risks.
Rt. Rev. Paul Masaba Kiptoo, Bishop of Sebei Anglican Diocese, urged communities to embrace environmental conservation, including tree planting and protecting natural ecosystems, to reduce the impact of climate-related disasters. The Sebei sub-region, located on the slopes of Mount Elgon, is among Uganda’s most landslide-prone areas. During the rainy season, mudslides and flash floods frequently destroy infrastructure, cut off roads, and disrupt essential services.
Local governments, in partnership with disaster response teams and development organizations, continue to strengthen early warning systems and emergency preparedness across the region.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
