Government Launches Resettlement Program for Bududa Landslide Victims

In a significant move to support those affected by landslides in Bududa, the Ugandan government has initiated a resettlement program for 1,650 people displaced by the disaster. The program, launched by State Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Hon. Dr. Lillian Aber, is part of the government's ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities in disaster-prone areas.

Under this initiative, each of the 271 affected households has been provided with a financial package totaling 17 million shillings. 

"The government has provided each of the 271 households with 10 million shillings, and GiveDirect International has added 7 million shillings, bringing the total assistance per household to 17 million shillings in cash, along with 2-acre plots of land in Bulambuli,"  said Dr. Aber

In addition to the financial assistance, Dr. Aber said that each household is being allocated a 2-acre plot of land in Bulambuli, where they can rebuild their lives away from the dangers of landslides.

The first phase of the resettlement plan is already underway, with 242 individuals set to relocate. "We are set to relocate the first group of 242 individuals while preparing the remaining victims for the next phase," said Dr. Aber.

During the launch, Dr. Aber expressed her gratitude to the Members of Parliament from Bududa and local leaders for their collaboration in the program. 

She also addressed concerns about misinformation being spread by some leaders regarding the resettlement efforts, urging them to desist from such actions. Dr. Aber warned that any future disasters could result in accountability for those obstructing the program.

"I urge some leaders who are spreading misinformation about the resettlement plan to stop. If another catastrophe occurs, I will hold them accountable," she said. 

She noted that the government of Uganda, through the Office of the Prime Minister is committed to executing this resettlement program as directed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary support to for the affected people to settle in safer environments.

About the landslides in Bududa District

Bududa district situated in the surroundings of Mount Elgon volcano is the hotspot for landslides in Uganda. 

Degradation of slopes through soil loss due to landslides in this district is a problem with fatalities, environmental consequences and food shortages in the future.

According to reports, during the period 1997 to 1999, landslides killed 48 people and displaced 10,000.

Further still, in 2010 and 2011 about three hundred and eighty (380) people were killed by landslides in this area.