MAK join Bududa relief efforts

Oct 19, 2018

Over 140 houses, several acres of crop gardens and animals were reportedly washed away, displacing over 800 people.

The drive to support the Bududa landslide victims have gathered pace.

The Makerere University Academic Staff (MUASA) has announced that it is embarking on a week long campaign to mobilise money and other resources to support the victims.

According to the office of the Prime Minister, the landslides that affected 11 villages claimed 45 lives of 45 people in the sub-counties of Bukalasi, Buwali, Nalwanga and Bubiida.

Over 140 houses, several acres of crop gardens and animals were reportedly washed away, displacing over 800 people.

The MUASA chairman, Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, said the items they intended to collect include household items, tents and scholastic materials for students.

Speaking during the launch of the campaign, Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, the chairman of the Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) said we want to show that Makerere stands with Bududa Community.

He called upon the public to participate in contributing towards Bududa mudslide victims.

"Makerere University stands with you people of Bududa and we shall be with you'' Kamunyu said

He called upon government always to deliver early information on disaster risks from the central point to districts, parishes and sub-counties.

Micheal Mbogga leacturer department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism, Makerere University called upon the public in hazard risk areas to always heed to warnings saying hazards are expected as a result of uncertain weather changes.

"Hazards do not necessarily lead to disaster. The public is encouraged to heed to warnings, and to move if asked to relocate," Mbogga noted

"The communities living on the slopes of Mt. Elgon are encouraged to engage in activities that will stabilize hillslopes and reduce those activities that will increase vulnerability to landslides. Reduce unnecessary clearing of forests and plant more trees."

However, Kamunyu criticised Government for failure to provide efficient preparedness mechanisms, saying the department is well equipped for response to disaster.

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