KAMPALA — The government has confirmed that 16 people have died from causes associated with food shortages in the Karamoja sub-region following prolonged dry conditions that have caused widespread crop failure and deepened food insecurity.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9, 2026, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Alex Kakooza, said while several parts of Uganda are experiencing dry spells, Karamoja has been the worst affected.
"Several parts of the country are currently experiencing dry conditions. In Karamoja, prolonged dry conditions have led to crop failure and food shortages," Kakooza said.
He said the government was saddened by reports that 16 people had died from causes associated with the food crisis and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
"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.
As part of the emergency response, the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday delivered 22 tonnes of relief food to the worst-hit areas in Kaabong District.
The consignment comprised 13 tonnes of maize flour and nine tonnes of beans and was distributed to Loduku and Loyoru sub-counties.
Kakooza said another consignment has already been arranged for immediate distribution to five districts that require urgent humanitarian assistance.
"The Office of the Prime Minister 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," he said.
He added that the government is preparing a broader intervention for the entire Karamoja sub-region and neighbouring districts.
According to Kakooza, the Office of the Prime Minister will seek Cabinet approval on Monday, July 13, for the procurement of additional emergency food relief to support communities facing severe food shortages.
"The Government recognises the difficulties faced by Ugandans experiencing food shortages and is taking urgent measures to support the families most in need," he said.
Karamoja has for years remained one of Uganda's most food-insecure regions due to recurrent droughts, erratic rainfall, low agricultural productivity and climate-related shocks. Humanitarian agencies have repeatedly warned that prolonged dry spells continue to threaten livelihoods, particularly among households that depend on rain-fed agriculture and livestock.
The latest government intervention comes as authorities race to prevent further loss of life and cushion vulnerable communities from the worsening effects of the drought.
