PHOTOS: Karamoja Hunger Death Toll Rises to 19

What the report says

Nile Post reports that the reported toll from hunger-related deaths in Uganda’s Karamoja sub-region has increased to at least 19 as communities await emergency food support from the government. The outlet says the crisis is being driven by prolonged drought that has damaged food production and livelihoods, leaving vulnerable households with little to eat.

According to the report, government plans to provide affected households with 20 kilograms of maize flour, commonly known as posho, and 10 kilograms of beans. Local leaders and residents, however, warned that the planned package may be too small for the large families common in the area. Moroto District Vice Chairperson Stephane Adupa Namer said some households have many dependants and could use up the ration within days.

Nile Post cited examples from Nawanatau and Nachuka villages, including families with 15 to 20 members who said the food would offer only brief relief. The report also said Parish Chief Peter Lotukei of Nawanatau had recorded three hunger-related deaths in the parish, while residents in Arechek Village pointed to the death of Veronica Nachuge after days without food. Children and older people were described as especially affected, with some households reportedly relying on residue from locally brewed sorghum beer.

Local leaders are asking government to speed up deliveries and consider measures such as feeding centres for the most vulnerable people. The report said expected food supplies had not reached Moroto by the time of publication, raising concern that delays could worsen conditions in a region already facing recurring food insecurity linked to drought, poverty and fragile livelihoods.