Landslides triggered by heavy rains in Cameroon’s capital city, Yaoundé, have caused the deaths of at least 23 individuals. Local reports suggest that the death toll might be higher, with some estimating it at 40 individuals. The disastrous landslides have made rescue missions challenging, as flooding has made it difficult for emergency services to access affected areas. In some cases, local residents have resorted to using their bare hands to retrieve bodies from the debris. The Mefou River overflowing due to heavy rainfall is the primary cause of the tragedy, with multiple neighborhoods partially submerged.
This catastrophic event echoes similar incidents in Yaoundé just a year earlier, where 14 lives were lost due to a landslide. However, this time, the Mbankolo neighborhood has borne the brunt of the devastation. The neighborhood, known for its precarious housing structures built on slopes, witnessed homes collapsing and banana trees uprooted. Witnesses have recounted the heart-wrenching scene of children’s bodies strewn across the wet ground.
As of now, 12 bodies have been identified and taken to the morgue, according to Actu Cameroun, a reputable news outlet. The flooding has also resulted in the destruction of approximately 25 houses, leaving numerous families trapped. The situation is dire, and immediate assistance is required to ensure the survival and safety of those affected.
Meanwhile, Cameroon’s neighboring country, Nigeria, has issued warnings to residents in nine states about the likelihood of impending floods. This comes as Cameroon initiates the controlled release of water from its Lagdo Dam, a process that is expected to continue until the end of the current month. Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (Nema) has also highlighted the potential risk posed by the release of water from Cameroon’s dam until the end of October.
Cameroon’s decision to release water is attributed to the heavy rainfall experienced in the northern region of the country. However, officials have stated that the release will be limited to minimize its impact. It is important to note that last year’s release of water from the Lagdo Dam resulted in flooding and fatalities in Nigeria, particularly in Benue state, which shares a border with Cameroon.
The recent landslides in Yaoundé and the subsequent release of water from Cameroon’s dam highlight the urgent need for better infrastructure planning and disaster management strategies in the region. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the vulnerability faced by communities living in high-risk areas and the necessity of implementing preventive measures to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
Furthermore, this incident emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and communication between neighboring countries. Nigeria’s cautionary message to its residents demonstrates the need for proactive measures and early warning systems to protect vulnerable populations.
It is imperative that authorities in Cameroon take immediate action to provide aid and support to those affected by the landslides. Rescue operations should be carried out efficiently, and relief efforts should focus on providing shelter, food, and medical assistance to the affected individuals and families. Additionally, long-term solutions must be developed to address the underlying factors contributing to the vulnerability of communities in high-risk areas.
The tragic landslides in Yaoundé serve as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of natural disasters and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all individuals in society. It is our collective responsibility to learn from these events and work towards creating a safer and more resilient future for communities worldwide.
