Landslide Tragedy: Death Toll Rises in Southern Ethiopia

In Southern Ethiopia, two landslides have claimed at least 229 lives, with rescue efforts ongoing. Heavy rain caused the first landslide on Sunday night, and another followed Monday morning, burying rescuers. Government and international bodies are working to mitigate the disaster's impact and provide aid.

The death toll from two landslides in southern Ethiopia has jumped to 229, with the search for survivors continuing, a government official confirmed on Tuesday.

Following heavy rains, the first landslide struck Gofa zone in Southern Ethiopia regional state on Sunday night, while a second landslide buried rescuers on Monday morning. Markos Melese, head of the National Disaster Response agency in Gofa Zone, said, "I don't know when it will stop. We are still recovering bodies."

Initial reports on Monday indicated at least 50 fatalities, including children and police officers. Footage from the local administration depicted people digging up bodies with shovels and hands. Gofa district administrator Misikir Mitiku stated, "The death toll surged after the people who came to rescue also got trapped. It is a very sad incident."

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his deep sorrow for the loss of life, announcing the deployment of federal officials to mitigate the disaster's impact. Moussa Faki Mahamat, African Union chairperson, voiced solidarity with the Ethiopian people and government, emphasizing ongoing rescue efforts.

World Health Organization head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, an Ethiopian national, extended his condolences and confirmed WHO support for immediate health needs. Workneh Gebeyehu, executive secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, urged vigilance and adherence to safety protocols amid the ongoing climate crisis to prevent further tragedies.

(With inputs from agencies.)