Sixteen Die of Hunger in Uganda as Severe Drought Devastates Crops

Prolonged dry spell leaves thousands of families without food in Uganda’s north-eastern Karamoja region

At least 16 people have died from hunger in Uganda’s north-eastern Karamoja region following a prolonged drought that has destroyed crops and left thousands of families struggling to survive.

The Ugandan government confirmed the deaths, saying the region has received little or no rainfall since April, the start of the planting season, leading to widespread crop failure and growing food shortages.

Drought destroys crops

Farmers across Karamoja say they have lost large portions of their harvest after maize, sorghum and soybean fields withered under the intense dry conditions.

The failed harvest has shattered hopes of a productive farming season and left many households without enough food to feed their families.

Government officials say thousands of people in the region are now facing severe food insecurity.

Government launches emergency response

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja said the government has already begun distributing emergency food aid to affected communities.

She added that her office will seek cabinet approval on Monday to purchase additional food supplies to support families impacted by the drought.

Authorities fear the humanitarian situation could worsen if rains do not return soon.

Experts warn of worsening climate challenges

Agricultural and climate experts say the recurring food crises in Karamoja are being driven by several factors, including climate change, poor rainfall, deforestation, overgrazing and crop pests.

These conditions have made communities increasingly vulnerable to hunger and have reduced their ability to recover from repeated droughts.

Experts are now calling for greater investment in irrigation systems, improved weather forecasting and the introduction of drought-resistant crops to help communities adapt to changing climate conditions.

Region has suffered before

Karamoja has experienced devastating food shortages in the past.

In 2022, an official report found that more than 2,200 people died from starvation and related illnesses in north-eastern Uganda, highlighting the region’s long-standing struggle with food insecurity.

The crisis also sparked controversy after then-Foreign Minister Henry Okello Oryem described those who had died from hunger as “idiots,” arguing that Uganda’s fertile land should allow people to grow their own food.

The latest deaths have once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of communities in Uganda’s semi-arid north-east and the urgent need for long-term solutions to prevent future hunger crises.