This morning, we woke up to news of landslides in Bududa district, Uganda, where our partner school Arlington Academy of Hope is located. Right now, sources are confirming around eighteen dead, but the death toll could be as many as 450. Luckily, the school itself was spared; but we (like many) are awaiting details on the many people who lived in the surrounding areas.
We’re working with Arlington Academy of Hope to discuss an emergency relief plan; please check back soon if you’re looking to help them through this crisis.
For up to date information on the landslides, click here.
[Update, 10:18 a.m.] The Wall Street Journal is reporting a confirmed death toll of 30; 250 unaccounted for. If the heavy rain continues, up to 400,000 may be displaced. Story here.
[Update, 10:43 a.m.] The volunteer coordinator at AAH is reporting: “None of the primary school students were killed, injured, or missing to the best of [her] knowledge. The children were at the school for a music festival when the landslide occurred. At this point, with preliminary information only, two children have lost their families. We are not sure about any secondary school students or their families at this time. It is unlikely that any secondary students were involved as they were away at their schools.”
AAH reports they will likely be organizing a drive for donations soon, once they have more information from their team on the ground, as local refugees will need kerosene, food, and tent materials. We will update you on those efforts as soon as possible.
