KWEEN, April 4, 2026 – The Government of Uganda, through the Office of the Prime Minister, has launched the second phase of a resettlement and cash transfer programme targeting households at risk of landslides in the Mt Elgon region.
The Shs 56 billion initiative was unveiled on Tuesday in Giriki, Soi County, Kween District, by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, accompanied by State Minister for Relief and Disaster Preparedness Lillian Aber.
The programme seeks to provide a lasting solution for communities that have long suffered from recurrent landslides, which have claimed lives, destroyed property and displaced hundreds of families in the Elgon region.
Under the second phase, the government has secured 1,318 acres of land to facilitate the resettlement of vulnerable households currently living in high-risk areas.
Speaking at the launch, Nabbanja reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting citizens from natural disasters through planned resettlement. She noted that the Elgon region continues to experience repeated landslides due to environmental degradation, population pressure on fragile slopes and heavy rainfall.
“We cannot continue to lose lives and property to preventable disasters. This programme is a clear demonstration of government’s dedication to safeguarding Ugandans and giving affected families a chance to rebuild their lives in a safer environment,” Nabbanja said.
She emphasised that the initiative goes beyond relocation, aiming to restore dignity and improve livelihoods. Beneficiaries will receive financial support to help them establish new homes, alongside access to essential services such as water for production, education and healthcare.
At the launch, each beneficiary household received Shs 10 million as start-up capital to support the construction of houses and meet basic settlement needs. Officials said the cash transfers are intended to enable families to quickly establish decent shelter and rebuild their lives.
The Prime Minister urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and prioritise housing and essential needs.
“This money is meant to help you start a new life. Use it wisely to rebuild strong homes and support your families,” she advised.
She also called on local leaders to ensure proper guidance and monitoring so that the funds are used for their intended purpose, stressing accountability and transparency in implementation.
Minister Aber highlighted the importance of preparedness and long-term planning in disaster management, noting that the government is shifting from emergency response to preventive measures such as resettlement and community awareness.
“We are focusing on proactive solutions that reduce risks before disasters occur. This resettlement programme is a key step in ensuring that vulnerable communities are moved to safer areas and supported to rebuild their livelihoods,” Aber said.
She added that her ministry would continue to work closely with local governments and security agencies to ensure smooth implementation and the safety of beneficiaries.
Local leaders in Kween District welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and critical for communities that have long lived under the constant threat of landslides. They noted that previous disasters have left many families homeless and dependent on emergency relief.
However, some residents raised concerns over insecurity in the resettlement areas, citing threats from cattle rustlers, particularly from the Pokot and Karamoja regions. They warned that relocation could expose them to raids, loss of livestock and undermine the programme benefits.
In response, Nabbanja assured affected communities that the government is taking steps to address security concerns, including the deployment and strengthening of security forces in the resettlement areas.
“Security is a priority for government. We are working with security forces to ensure that all resettlement areas are safe and stable,” she said.
District leaders and security officials pledged to intensify operations against cattle rustling and improve coordination between regions to maintain peace. They also urged communities to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
Despite the concerns, many residents welcomed the intervention, noting that the danger posed by landslides is immediate and life-threatening. Some beneficiaries expressed readiness to relocate, provided security and basic services are guaranteed.
Experts say the Mt Elgon region remains highly prone to landslides, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Environmental degradation, deforestation and settlement on steep slopes have worsened the situation over the years.
The second phase builds on earlier government resettlement efforts in districts such as Bududa, where families were relocated following deadly landslides. Lessons from those efforts are expected to guide improved implementation of the current phase.
Nabbanja reiterated the government’s commitment to long-term disaster risk reduction strategies, including environmental conservation, early warning systems and community sensitisation.
“This is not just about moving people, but about saving lives and building a secure future. Government will continue to support all vulnerable communities,” she said.
The launch marks a significant step in addressing the persistent landslide crisis in the Elgon region, with hopes that land allocation, financial support and improved security will provide lasting solutions for affected households.
https://thecooperator.news/land-ministry-launches-9th-national-land-awareness-week-in-elgon-region/
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