Uganda to relocate landslide victims

KAMPALA, Uganda, March 5 (UPI) -- The Ugandan government is working to evacuate and relocate more than 10,000 people affected by landslides caused by heavy rains, officials say.

"We must get these people out of the danger areas and put them where we can feed them until the rainfall season stops," David Wakikona, the state minister for northern Uganda, said from the capital Kampala Friday.

Seven football pitches in Bududa, Busuuta, Bubita and Bukalasi have been selected for use as resettlement camps until May, Wakikona said.

Meteorologists say they blame El Nino rains, due to stop in June, for a landslide that has killed 92 people. Another 90 people have been rescued but 500 are missing, authorities in Kampala said.

Senior meteorologist Deus Bamanya warns Uganda should see above-normal rains and more landslides and flooding before June.

Minister Jennipher Namuyangu said there is an upside to the El Nino rains, such as increased agricultural output because soil moisture will be higher.

"The regions that are expecting normal to above normal rainfall should use this chance to improve agricultural activities. The farmers are advised to make use of this season by planting enough food that will also cater for drought-stricken areas," she said.