Kasese District Urges Residents to Vacate Disaster-Prone Areas Ahead of Rainy Season.

With the onset of the rainy season, leaders in Kasese District are issuing a warning to local residents, highlighting the potential disasters that heavy rains can bring. Kasese is notorious for being prone to floods and mudslides, especially during the rainy season.

In an effort to safeguard lives and property, residents in areas vulnerable to disasters are being strongly advised to temporarily vacate these regions until the conclusion of the rainy season. The district’s limited preparedness and a history of such events have prompted this caution.

Given the rapidly changing weather patterns and the district’s historical vulnerability, leaders are anticipating an unusually high volume of rainfall, which could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Recognizing that some individuals still reside in disaster-prone areas, leaders are urging them to promptly relocate to safer zones, thus preventing the loss of lives and property, as has tragically occurred in previous years.

Richard Bomera, the Chairperson for the Nyamwamba Catchment Management Committee, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing preparedness as a means to mitigate the effects of potential disasters, rather than merely responding to them after they have occurred.

Kasese Municipality Mayor, Chance Kahindo, underscores the necessity for both leaders and local community members to embrace environmental conservation practices as a proactive measure in reducing such risks.

Meanwhile, while awaiting the potential disasters that may be brought by the anticipated rains, more than 100 victims of the 2020 floods are enduring difficult conditions at the Muhokya transit camp, where they have been residing for over three years, with hopes of permanent resettlement.

Despite assurances from the government last year regarding procuring land for the permanent resettlement of these individuals, the promise has yet to materialize. This delay has raised concerns among some leaders in the district.

Nevertheless, there remains optimism that the flood victims in the camp will eventually find a permanent solution to their housing and livelihoods.