Mudslide in Southern Ethiopia claims hundreds of lives

A catastrophic mudslide has struck the Kencho Shacha Gozdi district in southern Ethiopia, resulting in the loss of at least 229 lives, with many more still missing.

The disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall, has left a trail of destruction and heartbreak in its wake, with young children and pregnant women among the victims.

The mudslide, which occurred on Monday, has been described as one of the deadliest in recent Ethiopian history.

The initial death toll of 55 quickly rose as rescue teams combed the rugged terrain, uncovering more bodies buried beneath the thick mud. At least five people have been rescued alive, but many more are feared trapped.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed his heartfelt condolences for the devastating loss and activated the federal disaster prevention task force to assist in the search and rescue efforts.

The exact number of people still missing is not yet known, but authorities fear the death toll may continue to rise.

The disaster has sparked an outpouring of grief, with many victims laid to rest on Monday as rescue teams continued their search for survivors.

The terrain has proven challenging, with rescuers using shovels to clear through the thick mud in search of anyone still alive.

Landslides are a common occurrence during Ethiopia’s rainy season, which began in July and is expected to continue until mid-September.

However, the scale of this disaster has left many in shock, with the international community offering condolences and support.

As the rescue efforts continue, the people of Ethiopia are left to pick up the pieces and come to terms with the devastating loss.

The government has pledged to provide support to those affected, but for now, the focus remains on finding anyone still alive and bringing closure to the families of those who have lost loved ones.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook