16 people have been confirmed to have passed on from causes associated with food shortages in the Karamoja sub-region, following prolonged dry conditions that have led to crop failure and food shortages.
The Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Mr Alex Kakooza, in a statement released on Thursday, noted that government has since rolled out an emergency food plan for the most affected communities.
“Sadly, it has been reported that 16 people have died from causes associated with food shortages in the sub-region. The Government extends its deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and the affected communities” he said.
He added, “Yesterday, 8th July 2026, the Government delivered 22 tonnes of emergency relief food, comprising 13 tonnes of maize flour and 9 tonnes of beans, to Loduku and Loyoru sub-counties in Kaabong district”.
Mr Kakooza revealed that the OPM has also arranged for another consignment of relief food for immediate distribution to the most affected districts requiring urgent assistance, namely Kaabong, Kotido, Amudat, Napak, and Moroto.
“For the wider Karamoja sub-region and neighbouring districts, the Office of the Prime Minister will on Monday, 13th July 2026, seek Cabinet approval for the procurement of additional emergency food relief” he said.
The PS said government is taking urgent measures to support the families most in need.
