The Gofa Zone Department of Government Communications announced that the death toll from the landslide in the Gofa Zone of Southern Ethiopia has reached 157. The landslide occurred on Monday, July 15, 2016, at 10:00 AM.
According to Gofa Zone Manager II Ayele, over 157 bodies, including women and children, were found among the victims in Kencho Shacha Gozdi Kebele, Geze Gofa District. The landslide was triggered by heavy rainfall in the zone on Sunday night, resulting in two separate landslides on Sunday and Monday morning, as stated by Ato Kasahun Abayneh, the head of communication for the zone, in an interview with the BBC.
The first landslide happened early Monday morning when efforts were underway to remove debris from houses affected by Sunday’s heavy rain. The ground collapsed, causing further destruction and burying many residents. Around 4:00 AM on Monday, a second landslide struck during a rescue operation involving police members, residents, and the local kebele chairman, resulting in additional casualties.
Kasahun Abayneh confirmed that families are identifying and claiming the bodies of their loved ones, while unclaimed remains are being buried on-site. Ten survivors have been found and transported to Sawula Health Center and nearby medical facilities. He added that temporary shelters are being set up, and necessary materials and assistance will be provided to the affected families starting today.
A video has emerged showing hundreds of people gathering at the site and others digging to rescue those buried in the debris. The search for survivors continues intensively, with the death toll expected to rise. Excavation work is ongoing and will continue through the night and into the next day.
Local community groups and government organizations are assisting with the rescue efforts, although the lack of machinery is presenting significant challenges. Kasahun mentioned that while landslides are not uncommon in the steep area, this is the first time such a large number of people have lost their lives.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reported that Southern Ethiopia has been hit by heavy rains and floods in recent months, exacerbating the risk of such disasters.
