The Ugandan government has launched a relocation programme for households living in landslide-prone areas of the Bugisu sub-region. This initiative follows an emergency meeting between the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament from the Bugisu sub-region, held at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kampala. The programme aims to provide support to affected communities and prevent further loss of life and property.
According to an assessment conducted by the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry responsible for disaster preparedness, over 13,000 people are living in areas vulnerable to landslides. The government has allocated Shs 62 billion towards the relocation exercise, with each household expected to receive Shs 18 million to support their move to safer areas. This funding will enable affected communities to relocate to safer locations of their choice.
The relocation exercise is set to commence in Namisindwa District before being extended to other affected areas across the sub-region. The Prime Minister has pledged to camp in the affected areas to oversee the implementation of the programme. This commitment demonstrates the government's dedication to ensuring the successful relocation of affected households.
The Prime Minister's office has reported that the President directed the Prime Minister to ensure the immediate resettlement of communities living in landslide-prone areas during a Cabinet sitting on October 5, 2026. This directive underscores the government's urgency in addressing the landslide risk in the Bugisu sub-region.
The relocation programme is a response to the growing concern over landslides in the Bugisu sub-region. The government has taken a proactive approach to mitigate the risks associated with landslides, which have previously resulted in loss of life and property. By providing financial support to affected households, the government aims to reduce the vulnerability of communities in landslide-prone areas.
The Prime Minister is currently holding a crisis meeting with Members of Parliament from Mbale to finalise arrangements ahead of the relocation exercise. This meeting will ensure a coordinated approach to the relocation programme and enable the government to address any concerns or challenges that may arise during the implementation process.
The government's relocation programme is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of over 13,000 people living in landslide-prone areas of the Bugisu sub-region. By providing support to affected households, the government aims to reduce the risk of landslides and promote a safer living environment for communities in the region.
Key points
- The Ugandan government has allocated Shs 62 billion to relocate households living in landslide-prone areas of the Bugisu sub-region.
- Over 13,000 people are living in areas vulnerable to landslides and will benefit from the relocation programme.
- Each household will receive Shs 18 million to support their move to safer areas.
