Catastrophic Landslide in Dschang Hill, West Region of Cameroon, A Call for Climate Action
On November 5th, 2024, tragedy struck the Dschang Hill in Cameroon’s West Region. A catastrophic landslide claimed lives, destroyed vehicles, and disrupted traffic along one of the country’s most treacherous cliff roads. Deeply saddened by this disaster. We extend our heartfelt condolences to families who have lost loved ones, and our solidarity to survivors and those injured.
Initial reports indicated at least three fatalities when first responders attempted to clear debris from the first landslide. Tragically, a second landslide occurred, engulfing vehicles and claiming more lives. By Saturday, 12 November 2024, bodies had been recovered, with dozens more feared missing. Governor Augustine Awa Fonka of the Ouest Region stated grimly: “In our opinion, there is no longer any possibility of finding survivors.”
Despite the devastation, the tireless efforts of rescuers, first responders, and local authorities who risked their lives to protect others is commended. Their courage in the face of danger embodies the resilience and solidarity of Cameroonian communities.
This disaster did not occur in isolation. In recent weeks, heavy rainfall has battered Cameroon, destabilizing slopes and increasing the risk of landslides. The Climate Change Observatory had earlier warned of heightened risks in seven regions, including the West.
The Dschang landslide is a stark reminder of the escalating impact of climate change globally. Extreme weather events, whether floods, landslides, or droughts, are becoming more frequent and severe. Vulnerable communities, particularly in developing nations, bear the brunt of these disasters.
Cameroon’s roads already pose significant dangers. According to the World Health Organization (2023), nearly 3,000 deaths occur annually on the country’s roads, equating to more than 10 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. The combination of poor infrastructure, climate‑induced hazards, and limited emergency response capacity magnifies the risks.
Earlier in September, another tragedy unfolded near Dschang when a tractor‑trailer plunged into a ravine, killing eight and injuring 62, including children. These recurring incidents highlight the urgent need for climate‑resilient infrastructure and proactive disaster preparedness.
The Dschang landslide is not just a local tragedy, it is a global call for action. there is a need for both national and international communities to:
- Support survivors and families with immediate relief, medical care, and psychosocial assistance.
- Provide resources for recovery and rebuilding, ensuring infrastructure is resilient to future climate shocks.
- Invest in climate adaptation strategies, including early warning systems, slope stabilization, and sustainable land management.
- Strengthen global solidarity, recognizing that climate change is a shared challenge requiring collective solutions.
This disaster underscores the urgency of holistic climate action. Governments, civil society, and international partners must unite to mitigate risks, protect vulnerable populations, and build sustainable futures. We remain committed to advocating for justice, resilience, and sustainability. We call on the global community to stand with Cameroon, not only in mourning but in rebuilding, adapting, and preventing future tragedies.
The landslide in Dschang Hill is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the urgency of climate action. As we grieve, we must also act. Every life lost is a call to build a safer, more sustainable world.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
