Fear Grips Kisoro as Cracks on Mount Muhabura Put 700 Homes at Risk

What the report says

Nile Post reports that residents of Nyarusiza Sub-county in Kisoro District are worried after large fissures appeared on the slopes of Mount Muhabura, raising fears of landslides. Local authorities say close to 700 homes and livelihoods could be exposed to danger, and communities in the most vulnerable areas have been told to be ready for possible evacuation if the risk escalates.

According to the report, officials from the Office of the Prime Minister assessed the affected area and warned that the cracks could widen and contribute to a serious disaster. Nyarusiza LCIII Chairperson Elasmus Nsabimana told Nile Post that Buzeyi Village, Kabaale Village and parts of Nyagihegye Village were identified as especially at risk. He urged residents to stay calm, remain alert and work with government teams as preparedness and mitigation plans are developed.

Local leaders are also pressing for clearer communication and support for affected families. Nyarusiza LCV Woman Councillor Joyce Mutuzo Nsaba asked government to hold community sensitisation meetings so residents understand the findings and any relocation plans. Kabaale Village LCI Chairperson Benon Bizimana raised concerns about moving households without compensation and called for investment in water management structures to reduce runoff and erosion on the mountain.

Mount Muhabura, also called Mount Muhavura, is a dormant stratovolcano in the Virunga range on the Uganda-Rwanda border. Nile Post notes that although some residents fear the cracks may signal volcanic activity, experts cited in the article say there is no current scientific evidence of an imminent eruption. Authorities are treating landslides, erosion and slope failure as the immediate threats, with monitoring and public awareness seen as urgent safeguards.