Uganda Distributes Emergency Food Relief to Drought-Hit Karamoja Region

The Ugandan government has initiated the distribution of emergency food relief to communities in the Karamoja sub-region, which has been severely impacted by a prolonged dry spell. The operation officially commenced in Kotome Parish, Lodiko Sub-county, Kabong District.

Sam Engola, the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, flagged off the relief supplies. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to preventing hunger-related deaths in Karamoja. "His Excellency the President of Uganda does not want to hear of anyone in Karamoja dying of hunger. I am here to supervise the distribution of this food to the end. I will ensure that everyone receives food. No one will be left behind," Engola stated.

The minister issued a stern warning against the illicit sale of relief food, promising legal action against offenders. He also acknowledged the crucial role of the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) and other security agencies in safeguarding the food supplies and ensuring their delivery to intended beneficiaries. The distribution is slated to continue for two months, covering July and August 2026, with subsequent extensions to other parts of Karamoja.

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His Excellency the President of Uganda does not want to hear of anyone in Karamoja dying of hunger. I am here to supervise the distribution of this food to the end. I will ensure that everyone receives food. No one will be left behind.

John Baptist Lokii, the Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs, outlined that the exercise will reach households in every parish across the nine districts of Karamoja. He expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for the humanitarian intervention, noting that Parliament has approved Shs45 billion to aid those affected. Lokii also announced plans to provide drought-resistant and early-maturing seeds for the next planting season, urging residents to prepare their gardens. "As an additional measure, the Government is set to restock the region to help the community in Karamoja fight poverty and hunger," he added, calling for support from local leaders to maintain order.

Esther Anyakun, the Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, emphasized that saving lives is the government's top priority. She mentioned that UNICEF, the World Food Programme, and other development partners will assist schools and communities affected by the drought. Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, assured that the UPDF would provide security throughout the distribution process, including escorts and securing storage facilities, to ensure an orderly and uninterrupted operation.

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As an additional measure, the Government is set to restock the region to help the community in Karamoja fight poverty and hunger.