KISORO: The Kisoro District Disaster Management Committee has urged residents in Flood-Prone areas to consider relocating in order to protect their lives ahead of the upcoming rainy season.
The forecast, issued by the Department of Meteorological Services, predicts near-normal to above-normal rainfall across most regions, with peak rains expected between mid-April and early May.
Dr. Alfred Okoto Okidi, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Water and Environment, stated that Kisoro District is expected to receive substantial rainfall in April 2025.
In response to this, the Kisoro District Disaster Management Committee, in partnership with various organizations, convened on Tuesday at the district headquarters to discuss strategies for raising awareness about the dangers of heavy rainfall. The committee recommended that people living in water catchment areas consider relocating to safer zones. The meeting primarily focused on ways to sensitize residents about the potential risks associated with heavy rainfall, including landslides and floods.
   The area’s most likely to be affected include Nyarusiza Sub-county, Chahafi Town Council, Murora Sub-county, Muramba Sub-county, and Bukimbiri Sub-county.
Eunice Akankwasa, the Kisoro District Environment Officer, emphasized the importance of avoiding resettlement in areas prone to runoff water. She also cautioned residents against moving during heavy rainfall, staying under trees (to avoid lightning strikes), and recommended wearing rubber shoes during the rainy season.
Cue in Akankwasa…….on the matter……RR//
Aurelia Kyarimpa, an officer from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) at Mgahinga National Park on Mt. Muhabura, stated that UWA has limited capacity to predict the impact of heavy rainfall, which often leads to landslides and floods.
Cue in Kyarimpa……..on the issue……RR//
Abel Bizimana, the Kisoro District LC5 Chairperson, expressed concern about a new crack that has appeared on Mt. Muhabura, which is believed to be the origin of the devastating mudslide in which 10 people lost their lives.
Bizimana revealed plans to report the crack to the Office of the Prime Minister for further assessment and proper planning. He called on all local leaders and stakeholders to collaborate in raising awareness about the risks of landslides and floods in vulnerable areas.
Cue in Bizimana……..on the matter……ENG//
In recent years, Kisoro District has faced deadly floods and mudslides. In 2022, heavy flooding resulted in the deaths of nine people and displaced 200 families. In May 2023, at least 10 people were killed when mudslides occurred in Murora Sub-county and Bunagana Town Council. Additionally, in January 2024, flash floods and mudslides claimed the lives of nine people, with several others feared missing.
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