The most severe, prolonged drought weather is in the north-eastern region of Karamoja. The Ugandan government says the drought has caused at least 16 people to have died from hunger in recent weeks.
Farmers say April, the early planting season was the last significant rainfall. Crops are suffering. There are a few contributors to the problem; poor rainfall, deforestation, overgrazing and crop pests. Together, they leave communities increasingly vulnerable to hunger.
Large areas of maize, sorghum and soybeans have withered, shattering hopes of a bumper harvest. The government is starting to distribute emergency food aid, beginning in this north-eastern region. This semi-arid north-east region of Uganda has been struck by catastrophic food shortages before.
The government and the political picture in Uganda are not always looked upon as a social advocate for those suffering with basic living catastrophes. For example, media publications that frequently scrutinize these types of social needs issues that criticize government relief programs often lead to heightened pressure and physical blockades by armed security forces on their headquarters.
Fr Francis and the Wambale Catholic Mission is located in the south, central region of Uganda near Kampala, and has had a slightly better spring and early summer, but the effects of such a large area drought ripples throughout the entire country of Uganda. So, please pray for rain – for all of Uganda.
