The number of fatalities from a devastating landslide that occurred yesterday in the Kencho Shacha Gozdi district of Gofa Zone, South Ethiopia Region, continues to rise.
As of last night, the death toll had reached 229, but it has since increased to 260, according to Geze Gofa District Administrator Mr. Misikir Meteku.
The landslide has claimed the lives of many, including women and children. The search for bodies is ongoing, and authorities fear the death toll may rise further as rescue efforts intensify.
Mr. Meteku reported that the tragedy struck three families initially. As people attempted to rescue them, another landslide occurred, leading to more casualties. Among the victims are the district police chief and several women and children.
In response to the disaster, the state government has requested support from the federal government to assist in retrieving more bodies and providing aid to the affected families.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “In Gofa Zone, Geze Gofa District, Kencho Shacha Gozdi Kebele, a sudden landslide has claimed the lives of many of our citizens; I express my deep sorrow for the terrible damage.”
He also announced that the Federal Disaster Prevention Task Force has been deployed to the area to mitigate further damage and assist in rescue operations.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), also conveyed his condolences on social media.
“I am saddened by the news from Ethiopia and the death of dozens of people due to the landslide,” he wrote. The WHO team in Ethiopia has been deployed to provide immediate health support to the affected area.
Leaders from many countries have expressed their grief over the disaster and have extended their condolences to the victims and their families.
The situation in the Gofa Zone remains dire, with ongoing rescue operations and efforts to provide relief to those affected by this tragic event.
