European Union launches Shs16 billion project in Karamoja region.

By: Zawedde Patricia 

United Nations World Food Programme together with Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) launched a project aimed at solving the problem of food insecurity in Karamoja region.

The project that is worth Shs16.69 billion is expected to run for five years was launched by the European Ambassador to Uganda, Mr Attilio Pacifici in Kotido District.

Mr Attilio thanked the government of Uganda for being at the forefront of all development and emergency programmes in the region. He said without government, interventions, especially in addressing climate disasters, would not be sustainable.

According to the Ambassador, the project will help to strengthen the district disaster management committees to be able to develop contingency plans that address the needs of the community.

“The project is working towards strengthening shock response systems in all the nine districts of Karamoja through early warning on weather patterns and assistance that enables households to take action to reduce the risks,” he said.

Ms. Priya Gujadhur, the FAO’s Deputy Representative in Uganda, said the organization has already piloted a drought early warning system to improve community preparations for a better farming experience.

“We are working with the government of Uganda to build an effective early warning system for Karamoja that will predict, food security shocks, and then support communities to prepare accordingly,” she said.

Mr. Paul Lotee Komol, the Kotido district chairman welcomed the project saying it has been launched at a time when the region is facing an acute food shortage.

“Our people are suffering because there was no rain, the crops failed, and they do not know what to do, but now with the launch of this project it will make the community be aware of climate changes in time,” he said.