Tensions are rising in Kigongi B cell, Central Division of Kabale municipality, where more than 30 homes are living in fear of a looming landslide that could wreak havoc on their lives and properties.
Among those most severely affected is the family of Japeth Basinguzi, a retired tutor whose multi-story house is gradually sinking into the abyss created by the unfolding disaster.
The crisis began in July this year when a menacing crack first appeared on their properties.
Initially, the Basinguzi family attempted to mitigate the issue by filling it with rocks and soil but their efforts proved futile as the crack continued to expand, eventually causing the building to sink.
Emmy Twesigamukama, the LC.1 chairperson for Kigongi B cell, says that they have reached out to various officials, seeking assistance in understanding the situation as the community is in dire need of support to avert a catastrophic event.
Simon Byamukama, Executive Director of Let Us Save Uganda and Milton Kwesinga, Executive Director of Africa Disaster Reduction Research and Emergency Missions have both urged the government to intervene promptly and enforce necessary regulations to protect the environment.
Eva’s Asiimwe, the senior environmental officer for Kabale district stated that their technical team will visit the area to assess the problem.
She also mentioned that her office will draft a comprehensive report to be submitted to the office of the prime minister in hopes of securing intervention.
