A massive landslide in a remote region of southern Ethiopia has claimed the lives of at least 229 people, marking the deadliest such disaster in the Horn of Africa nation’s history.
The tragedy unfolded on Monday in the Kenc ho-Shacha locality of the Gofa Zone.
Desperate residents used shovels and their bare hands on Tuesday to search for survivors amidst the rubble.
Heart-wrenching images shared on social media depict the extent of the devastation, with people carrying bodies on makeshift stretchers.
Among the victims are local officials, teachers, healthcare workers, and agricultural professionals who had rushed to assist those affected.
Heavy rains that battered the area on Sunday night triggered the landslide, according to Ethiopian authorities.
While five people were miraculously rescued from the mud, the overwhelming majority of those caught in the disaster perished.
The Ethiopian government has deployed a disaster prevention task force to the region to aid in rescue efforts and mitigate the impact of the tragedy.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, while the African Union extended its condolences to the affected families.
Landslides are a recurring threat in Ethiopia, particularly during the rainy season.
The country’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters, including floods and droughts, highlights the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response measures.
The remote location of the affected area has hampered rescue efforts, and the death toll is expected to rise as search and recovery operations continue.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation and offering support to the Ethiopian government and people.
