In November 2024, heavy rains triggered landslides in Buluganya sub-county, Bulambuli District, resulting in the displacement of over 1,000 people and the tragic loss of at least 38 lives. The landslides, exacerbated by climate change and heavy rains, destroyed homes, farmland and livelihoods.
According to the Bulambuli District Local Government, approximately 2,000 people were directly or indirectly affected, with 100 individuals identified as critically vulnerable. Women and children were disproportionately impacted, with many losing their possessions and facing dignity-related challenges. Many also lost fertile farmland for growing coffee.
The survivors relocated to Bunambutye Resettlement Camp faced significant hardships, including lack of essential supplies and inadequate living conditions. In response, the Welsh Government through Size of Wales’ partner, the Mount Elgon Tree Growing Enterprise (METGE), contributed £11,000 in funding relief to support the affected communities. The aim was to meet the immediate needs of the survivors.
METGE and the implementing partners BRDC and MEACCE, worked together to deliver the Welsh Government support of relief items to the survivors at the Bunambutye Resettlement Camp. These items included; blankets and mats, soap, cooking oil, cartons of milk, rice and reusable sanitary pads.
METGE’s Executive Director, Mr. George Micheal Sikoyo, expressed deep gratitude to the Welsh Government for their timely intervention:
“I want to express my gratitude to the Welsh Government and the people of Wales for their generous support to the victims of these devastating landslides. We want to empower communities to adapt to the changing climate.”
In addition to providing emergency relief, METGE is committed to addressing the long-term challenges faced by the region. This will be through tree growing initiatives to increase tree cover the Mount Elgon region, as well as improve soil and water conservation. The Bunambutye Nursery, one of METGE’s community tree nurseries, produces 90,000 tree seedlings annually to support reforestation efforts in the resettlement area.
The donations have provided vital support to the survivors at a critical time.
Namataka Jessica, who lost her husband during the landslide, expressed the profound impact the tragedy has had on the community:
“When the landslide struck, it didn’t only kill my husband, but it destroyed our homes but also livelihoods and the dreams we had for our families. It was a moment of despair for everyone in our community, with no clear path forward. We thank the Welsh Government and METGE with their relief and support. Your intervention is nothing short of a lifeline. It has helped us rise from the ashes, providing us with food and shelter and encouragement we needed to rebuild. Your generosity has shown us that even in the most challenging times, there are those who care deeply about the well-being of others. We are immensely grateful for your commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities like ours. Your kindness has made a lasting impact, and we will forever cherish the hope you brought into our lives. Thank you for being a true beacon of compassion during our time of need.”