Jul 26 (Jowhar.com) – The number of people who died in the landslide in Ethiopia is increasing, and now the United Nations has said that the death toll has now risen to 257, and it is estimated that it can reach up to 500 people.
Emergency teams are still searching for survivors. Thousands of people have arrived at the site of the incident, some of whom are using their hands or small tools to dig in the ground.
Solomon Tsoma told the AFP news agency that 13 people from his family died in the landslide, including seven children born by his uncle, adding that they found the bodies of 12 of them.
The United Nations agency UNOCHA said that the death toll continues to rise and could reach up to 500 people.
The government of Ethiopia has declared a national day of mourning to honor those who lost their lives in this tragic event. President Sahle-Work Zewde has called for unity and solidarity in the face of this disaster.
The landslide occurred in the town of Guba, in the Oromia region of Ethiopia, after heavy rains caused the collapse of a mountainside. The area is known for its steep terrain, which makes it susceptible to natural disasters such as landslides.
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society and other humanitarian organizations are providing assistance to the affected communities, including food, shelter, and medical aid. The government has also pledged to provide support to the families of the victims and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the search and rescue efforts continue, the international community is urged to support Ethiopia in its response to this tragedy. The UN has called for urgent action to address the underlying causes of such disasters, including deforestation and poor land management practices.
Our thoughts are with the people of Ethiopia during this difficult time, and we stand in solidarity with them as they mourn the loss of their loved ones.
