Kampala, Uganda – A tragic incident at the Kitezi Landfill in Kampala has left eight people dead and 14 others rescued, following a devastating collapse early on Saturday. The tragedy has prompted an extensive rescue operation involving multiple government agencies and local community members.
State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief, and Refugees, Ms. Lilian Aber, was among the officials who visited the site to assess the situation. She expressed her deep condolences to the families affected by the disaster, stating, “We are committed to working relentlessly alongside emergency response teams to ensure that we move faster and rescue our people.”
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in coordination with the Uganda Police, Ministry of Works and Transport, Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, the Red Cross, and local residents, managed to evacuate 14 survivors. The rescued individuals were transported to Mulago and St. Steven hospitals for urgent medical care.
In a statement, the KCCA confirmed the fatalities and ongoing efforts: “With deep sadness, we confirm that eight people have been found dead, including six adults and two children. The rescue operation is ongoing, and we will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Among the deceased were six adults and two children. The cause of the incident has not yet been determined, but investigations are currently underway.
Authorities are also investigating a structural failure in the waste mass at the Kitezi Landfill, which is believed to have triggered the collapse of a section of the landfill, impacting nearby homes and livestock. Damage assessments are ongoing, and the area has been cordoned off to prevent further incidents.
“This is a developing story,” the KCCA stated, assuring the public that every effort is being taken to secure the area and ensure community safety. The KCCA and other involved agencies are working to prevent any future tragedies and provide support to those affected by this disaster.
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