The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is playing a key role in providing secure transport and escort for emergency food relief aimed at combating severe hunger across the Karamoja sub-region.
The government is set to distribute more than 9.4 million kilograms of food, consisting of maize flour and beans, to vulnerable communities in all nine districts of Karamoja affected by drought.
Minister for Karamoja Affairs Hon. Lokii John Baptist chaired a coordination meeting in Kaabong District to finalise logistics, beneficiary verification, and security arrangements for the rollout.
The exercise follows a directive from the Office of the Prime Minister.
Hon. Lokii commended local leaders for their rapid assessment, which informed the government’s response.
“The assessment report has helped us to clearly establish the extent of the situation in the region,” he said.
“Food is now available for everyone in Karamoja, and we shall use the distribution matrix to ensure it reaches the most vulnerable people. Let no one misuse this food. Let it reach all the distribution centres in time.”
The minister instructed Chief Administrative Officers, Resident District Commissioners, and security agencies to closely supervise the process and provide regular progress reports.
He warned against any diversion or theft of the supplies, promising swift legal action against offenders.
He also praised the security forces for restoring peace, which will support smooth distribution.
The National Enterprise Corporation will manage the transportation of supplies to designated points.
Kaabong Resident District Commissioner Stephen Latek called on all officers to uphold integrity.
“We must fulfil the Head of State’s commitment by ensuring the food reaches the most vulnerable people,” Latek stated.
The Commander of the UPDF 3 Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, pledged full security support and warned leaders against manipulating beneficiary lists.
“As stakeholders, let us not interfere in this food distribution operation if we are to save the lives of the people of Karamoja,” Maj. Gen. Sserunkuma said.
“We must guard against the exaggeration of data. Accurate data will give us a proper basis for better planning and distribution of the food items.”
The UPDF and Uganda Police Force will provide armed escorts to ensure safe delivery to remote areas.
Distribution is expected to begin immediately once beneficiary registers are finalised, with similar coordination meetings planned across all nine districts.
