The Government has commenced the distribution of emergency food relief to households in the Karamoja sub-region following a prolonged dry spell that has left thousands at risk of hunger.
The exercise was officially launched in Kotome Parish, Lodiko Sub-county, Kabong District, with the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Sam Engola, flagging off the operation. The intervention is aimed at providing immediate support to communities whose livelihoods have been severely affected by drought.
Speaking at Kabong District Headquarters, Engola reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring that no Ugandan dies of hunger, particularly in the vulnerable Karamoja region.
“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,” he said.
The minister issued a stern warning against the sale of relief food, noting that offenders will face the full force of the law. He also commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and other security agencies for safeguarding supplies and ensuring they reach intended beneficiaries.
According to Engola, the distribution will run for two months—July and August 2026—before being extended to other parts of Karamoja, including the central, western and southern clusters.
The Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs, Lokii John Baptist, said the exercise will cover households in every parish across the nine districts of the sub-region. He thanked Yoweri Museveni for the intervention, noting that Parliament approved Shs45 billion to support affected communities.
Lokii cautioned residents against selling relief food and revealed that government will distribute drought-resistant, disease-resistant and early-maturing seeds ahead of the next planting season. He also announced plans to restock livestock in the region as part of broader efforts to combat poverty and food insecurity.
“As an additional measure, the Government is set to restock the region to help communities in Karamoja fight poverty and hunger,” he said, urging local leaders to ensure order during the distribution process.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Esther Anyakun, said saving lives remains government’s top priority. She noted that partners such as UNICEF and the World Food Programme will support schools and vulnerable communities affected by hunger.
The Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, Wilberforce Sserunkuma, said the army will provide security throughout the operation to ensure smooth and orderly distribution.
“The UPDF will ensure security for all stakeholders involved in relief distribution, provide escorts and secure storage facilities. We will work with the Uganda Police to ensure food is distributed without disruption,” he said.
The launch was attended by district leaders and security officials, including Resident District Commissioner Stephen Latek, local council leaders and technical staff, underscoring a coordinated government response to the food crisis in Karamoja.
