Tragedy Strikes Southern Ethiopia: Mother of Six Describes Heartbreaking Landslide
In the remote hilltop village of Kencho Satcha Gozdi in southern Ethiopia, a devastating landslide has left many trapped in the mud, with a death toll that continues to rise. Meselesh Gosaye, a mother of six, was at home caring for her children when she heard the screams and rushed to the site of the disaster.
The village, like many others in the area, is at risk of floods and landslides due to its hilly landscape and heavy rains that preceded the tragic event. Despite the danger, Meselesh and her family joined the frantic efforts to rescue those buried in the mud, using their bare hands and shovels to dig through the debris.
Tragically, a second landslide occurred, burying many of the rescuers, including Meselesh’s husband and two eldest sons. The community rallied together to continue the search and rescue mission, but the toll of the disaster is immense.
As the death toll rises and families mourn their lost loved ones, the community faces a long road to recovery. The UN estimates that up to 500 people may have perished in the landslides, and thousands will need to be relocated to prevent future disasters.
For Meselesh, closure will only come when her missing son is found. The grief and devastation in the village are palpable, and it will take time for the community to heal from this tragic event.