UPDF Launches Disaster Response Training in Bulambuli

The State Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Huda Oleru, launched a 14-day Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) field training exercise in Bulambuli District, aimed at strengthening disaster response capabilities among security agencies. 

The training, which commenced on April 12, is being held in Bulugeni Town Council and will run until April 25.

It brings together UPDF personnel, police officers, prison warders, Red Cross representatives, ministry officials, and district leaders.

The exercise follows a directive by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to establish a specialized UPDF unit focused on disaster preparedness and response, working alongside other government agencies. 

Addressing participants at the launch, Minister Oleru said the training is intended to equip security forces with practical skills to respond swiftly and effectively to disasters, particularly in high-risk areas. 

Bulambuli was selected as the training site due to its vulnerability to natural disasters, especially landslides, and its ongoing resettlement efforts. 

Thousands of affected residents have been relocated to the Bunabutye Government Resettlement Area following repeated disasters in the region. 

She noted that, in the past, disaster response efforts led by the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness and humanitarian agencies such as the Red Cross were often slowed by bureaucratic procedures. 

She expressed confidence that the involvement of the UPDF and other security agencies would significantly improve response times and coordination. 

Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Aweny Otema said the UPDF will also undertake environmental restoration efforts during the training, including the planting of over 30,000 tree seedlings across the district. 

The initiative is aimed at mitigating disasters such as landslides and floods, which are often worsened by environmental degradation. 

He emphasized the UPDF’s role as a “friendly force” and called on local communities to work closely with security agencies in disaster prevention and response efforts. 

Officials from the Office of the Prime Minister also highlighted the urgency of strengthening disaster preparedness. 

Charles Komakechi, from the Department of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Management, said the Bugisu sub-region has in recent years experienced recurring landslides and floods, causing widespread destruction and displacement.

He noted that partners, including GiveDirectly, have supported resettlement efforts by compensating affected families and facilitating relocation from high-risk districts such as Bududa, Namisindwa, Sironko, Mbale, and Bulambuli. 

The region has faced a series of devastating disasters in recent years. In 2024, a landslide in Bulambuli buried more than 100 homes. 

In 2025, areas in Sebei, including Bukwo and Kapchorwa, were hit by landslides and flash floods that displaced hundreds of people.

Earlier in March 2025, severe flooding in Kampala disrupted businesses and submerged homes in several parts of the city. 

The ongoing training marks a significant step toward building a more coordinated and rapid national response to disasters, as Uganda continues to grapple with the increasing impact of climate-related emergencies.