By Bondry Kilenga
The Ugandan and Chinese governments, in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) and Andre Foods International (AFI), have flagged off a rice distribution program in Karamoja to support vulnerable communities affected by food insecurity and malnutrition.
The distribution program launched on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Napumpum sub-county in Kotido district by the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong, is expected to benefit 60,000 vulnerable people in Karamoja’s nine districts.
James Kingori, the Head of the World Food Programme in Karamoja, highlighted the region’s dire situation, stating that Karamoja has the highest food insecurity and malnutrition rates in Uganda.
Kingori said that by 2024, approximately 12 percent of children under 5 years old were diagnosed with malnutrition, and about 45 percent were found to be food insecure.
He added that the intervention aims to prevent communities from selling essential assets to cope with food shortages.
Joseph Abele, the Liaison Officer for Karamoja in the Ministry of Education and Sports, noted that Kotido district has risen in national rankings, with enrollment increasing from 50,000 pupils in 1982 to 320,000 currently.
He attributed this positive change to the school feeding program, which has led to improved grades and increased enrollment.
Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong, emphasized the Chinese government’s commitment to engaging the population in agriculture to eradicate hunger in Karamoja.
Peter Lokeris the state minister for Karamoja Affairs, appreciated the donations by the Chinese government, adding that the two states were now focusing on mechanized agriculture and storage management, which are crucial for sustainable food security in the region.
Lokeris stated that if implemented, the initiative will address root causes such as climate impact and promote long-term food security.
For Advertisement and News call or send SMS to 0787551001 or WhatsApp +256-787-289-992/+256-775-907-140 or email: eetoilnewsdesk@gmail.com/vokradio22@gmail.com
