Prime Minister Abiy Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Tragic Loss of Lives in Landslide Disaster in Gamo Zone

Addis Ababa, March 14, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed profound sorrow following the tragic loss of lives caused by a sudden landslide triggered by the ongoing Belg seasonal rains in Gacho Baba and surrounding districts of the Gamo Zone.

“I express my deep sorrow over the loss of the lives of our citizens who died due to the sudden landslide disaster caused by the Belg rains in Gacho Baba and other districts of the Gamo Zone in the South Ethiopia Region,” the Prime Minister said in a message shared through social media channels.

 

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting affected communities.

He stated that the government will continue to provide the necessary assistance to citizens impacted by the disaster while emphasizing the importance of conducting proper studies to develop sustainable solutions.

“The government will continue to provide the necessary support to our affected fellow citizens. Appropriate studies and work must also be carried out to resolve the problem in a sustainable manner. Preventive measures are also necessary,” the Prime Minister noted.

 

Shortly after arriving from the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister Abiy traveled directly to Arba Minch to pay respects to victims and their families and to assess the ongoing relief and recovery efforts across the affected communities in Arba Minch and the wider Gamo Zone.

Days of heavy rainfall in the area triggered devastating floods and landslides. Rising waters from the Kulfo River also overflowed into nearby neighborhoods, damaging homes, farmland, and critical local infrastructure.

 

Meanwhile, the House of Peoples' Representatives has declared three days of national mourning following the disaster.

According to the House’s official statement, the landslide occurred earlier this week in Laka Kebele of Gacha Baba Woreda, claiming the lives of several residents who were present in the area at the time of the tragedy.