Uganda screens 30,000 buildings for earthquake safety
The National Building Review Board is updating seismic risk maps and construction standards to protect communities.
Uganda is assessing the safety of its buildings to prepare for earthquakes, screening over 30,000 structures nationwide. The National Building Review Board (NBRB) is identifying weaknesses and guiding improvements to construction standards.
Eng. Dr Maurice Oleng, head of research at the NBRB, stated that these assessments, combined with new scientific studies, will inform building regulations and disaster preparedness. The NBRB is collaborating with the Global Earthquake Model Foundation on this project, which examines earthquake hazards, exposure, and building vulnerability. A study assessed 100 school buildings in Fort Portal, Hoima, and Mbarara, identifying areas for targeted safety improvements.
Research is important for Uganda due to its location within the East African Rift System, with areas like Toro, Kigezi, Ankole, and Bunyoro identified as susceptible to earthquakes. The NBRB aims to update Uganda’s seismic design provisions to better withstand seismic forces, informed by new scientific evidence and modern engineering practices.
Why it mattersUgandan communities, particularly in areas prone to seismic activity, face risks from earthquake-vulnerable buildings.