The Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to immediately release Shs32.75bn for the relocation of persons affected by Bududa Landslides in Eastern Uganda.
This is part of the Monday Cabinet Resolutions.
Addressing the press at Uganda Media Centre Tuesday, the State Minister for Relief and Disaster Preparedness, Musa Ecweru said government has made available money for resettlement to happen, revealing that “900 households will be relocated.”
He says land has already been acquired, noting that each household will receive 2.5 acres.
On delayed relocation, he said: “The truth is that relocation is going to take place; the people themselves resisted relocation initially. Two, the politicians resisted.”
He added: I am now glad to note that resettlement is now on consensus (agree to move).”
He says the 2.5 acres of land offered to persons affected by the Bududa landslides will have a 25 year caveat to the title.
This, he said, will halt sale and purchase of the same – leaving many homeless in return.
“The truth is that the place that we have bought sits in a pathway. Water coming from Mt. Elgon, but I must say it is a lot safer,” he said, adding that government will plant trees in places that they will vacate to restore the ecosystem that has been damaged.
He revealed that according to his records Bugisu sub-region has experienced 66 landslides. The 2010 landslides claimed lives of over 300 people, while the latest has claimed lives of over 40 people.
