Rescue operations are ongoing in eastern Uganda after landslides buried homes in Bulambuli District, killing at least 15 people and leaving 113 missing. Irene Muloni, the local MP, called for the immediate relocation of residents due to ongoing heavy rains. Efforts are hindered by impassable roads, and two rescue boats capsized during operations.

Rescue efforts are ongoing in eastern Uganda following devastating landslides that buried homes in more than six villages in Bulambuli District.

Irene Muloni, the current Woman MP for Bulambuli and former Minister for Energy, urged on Thursday, November 28, for the relocation of residents from the affected areas. She described the situation as dire, stating that 45 houses had been completely buried, and at least 15 people, including seven children, had died. Additionally, 113 others are still missing.

"The government is now procuring more land, but as you can see, the situation is dire. The rains are still continuing, and the water is pouring down the hills in torrents. It's very dangerous. My plea is for people to be immediately relocated. Let's move away from this place and stay with relatives for safety," Muloni said.

The landslides occurred after heavy rains struck the mountainous region of Bulambuli late Wednesday night, about 280 kilometers east of Uganda’s capital, Kampala. This area had already suffered from similar heavy rains last year, resulting in loss of life.

Uganda Police reported that rescue operations have been intensified in collaboration with other security agencies and the local community. However, the efforts are being hampered by impassable roads. In addition, two rescue boats capsized during a mission on the River Nile, where the Pakwach bridge had been submerged.