The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has deployed emergency response teams to Bulambuli District following flash floods that have left widespread destruction across the area. Heavy rains that fell continuously from the night of October 31st to the early hours of November 1st caused rivers Atari, Sipi, Simu, and Muyembe to overflow, submerging homes, washing away property, and cutting off critical access roads.
According to the URCS rapid assessment conducted jointly with the Bulambuli District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC), at least 665 households (3,327 people) were affected across six sub-counties of Bumufuni, Bwikonge, Nabongo, Muyembe, Bukhalu, and Bulambuli Town Council. Of these, 207 houses were completely destroyed, 438 partially damaged, and over 2,775 acres of farmland carrying food crops like maize, rice, groundnuts, and sunflower were washed away.
“The Uganda Red Cross remains committed to saving lives and supporting communities at risk. Our teams are working tirelessly with local leaders to provide urgent assistance and ensuring that the affected communities develop copying mechanisms,” said Dr. Brian Kanaahe, Director of Disaster Risk Management at URCS.
Red Cross teams on ground supporting response efforts
Immediately after the floods, URCS volunteers and staff from the Bulambuli Sub-branch were among the first responders, conducting rapid needs assessments to inform the National Society’s humanitarian action. The teams are also providing evacuation support, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
In close coordination with the Office of the Prime Minister, Bulambuli district authorities, URCS has mobilized its National Disaster Response Team members (NDRT) and community volunteers to assess damages, identify urgent needs, and support affected families. URCS is also working with partners to mobilize food, non-food items (NFIs), emergency shelter kits, safe water, and psychosocial support.
“The impact of these floods goes beyond the destruction of property, families have lost their livelihoods, access to clean water, and basic sanitation facilities. We are prioritizing the most vulnerable as we work with partners to coordinate an effective and yet timely response,” added Dr. Kanaahe.
Communities face compounding risks
The floods have destroyed several water points, bridges, and roads, limiting movement and access to health centres. The standing water and poor sanitation conditions have raised fears of disease outbreaks, especially malaria and waterborne infections.
Children and women have been disproportionately affected, with many forced to seek refuge with host families or in temporary shelters. Some families are still living in partially submerged homes, reluctant to leave behind what remains of their belongings.
District officials have appealed for continued support from government and humanitarian agencies to help restore infrastructure and rebuild community livelihoods.
Immediate needs identified include food assistance, emergency shelter kits, safe water access, medical supplies, and psychosocial support.
With heavy rains expected to continue across the Elgon sub-region, URCS urges all communities living near riverbanks, steep slopes, and low-lying areas to remain on high alert.
Residents are advised to relocate to higher and safer grounds, avoid crossing flooded paths, and closely follow early warning messages from local authorities and URCS.
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to keep children away from open drainage channels and flooded areas to prevent accidents.
The Uganda Red Cross Society appeals to partners, corporate organizations, and well-wishers to support the ongoing humanitarian efforts in Bulambuli and other climate triggered disasters like Kapchorwa, Kween and Bukwo. Your contribution can make a life-saving difference, helping to provide shelter, food, medical care, and safe water for vulnerable families.
“This is a time when humanity must come together. Every contribution counts, whether through financial support, in-kind donations, or partnership in recovery efforts,” — Ms. Irene Nakasiita the Director Communication, Resource Mobilisation & Partnerships at URCS emphasized.
Despite challenges such as cut-off roads and submerged bridges, URCS teams continue to provide life-saving humanitarian support to affected communities while coordinating with the OPM, local authorities and partners for a comprehensive recovery plan.
To support our response, visit: https://redcrossug.org/donate/