Countermeasures for and Experiences in Seismic Hazard Mitigation in Uganda

For earthquake-prone countries of the world, it is crucial to develop countermeasures and to share experiences in seismic hazard mitigation. The measures for seismic hazard mitigation are related to many factors, e.g., social, economic, and political. Research focused on modern science and technology paves the way for a better understanding of the earthquake phenomenon and helps to plan against its effects in seismically active areas.In this paper, we consider some of the events that occurred in earthquake-prone countries, both developing and developed, which caused devastation to the society and economy. These are mainly major events that have affected a considerable portion of the gross domestic product of these economies.Measures to mitigate seismic hazard are stressed and suggested. In addition, experiences in seismic hazard mitigation in Uganda and the rest of the world are discussed in general terms. Attention is given to geotectonic settings as well as the work of seismic hazard and disaster management, and earthquake monitoring in Uganda. The need for regional and international cooperation in seismology and modern high-tech research and the challenges of funding and training for developing countries at seismic risk are also stressed.Lastly, it is pointed out that, since seismic hazard is an inevitable and continuous phenomenon which results in loss of life, and the destruction of structures in earthquake-prone regions of the world, the way to manage such a risk depends largely on the state of advanced research on the earthquake phenomenon.