Bududa

Bududa is a district in the Eastern Region of Uganda, part of the Bugisu sub-region. It lies on the slopes of Mount Elgon, and its capital is Bududa Town. The district is predominantly rural, and agriculture is the main economic activity. The population is mainly from the Bagisu (Gisu) ethnic group, who speak Lugisu, with subsistence farming and small-scale trade forming the backbone of livelihoods.

Geography and climate: The terrain is hilly and receives high rainfall, supporting diverse crops but also elevating the risk of landslides during heavy rains. The Elgon foothills shape the district’s landscapes and village settlements, influencing agriculture, housing, and infrastructure.

Economy and development: Agriculture dominates the local economy, with crops such as bananas (matooke), maize, beans, coffee, and vegetables. Livestock keeping is common in some areas. Economic development has progressed in pockets, but access to services like education, healthcare, and transportation remains uneven, particularly in remote communities.

History and notable events: Bududa drew international attention in March 2010 when a series of deadly landslides on Mount Elgon’s slopes struck the district and neighboring areas. The disaster caused significant loss of life, displaced thousands of residents, and prompted emergency relief efforts, relocation to safer areas, and ongoing disaster risk reduction and response programs.

Overall, Bududa is characterized by its mountainous terrain, reliance on agriculture, and exposure to natural hazards, with development efforts aimed at improving resilience and access to essential services for its residents.