news 26 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
New Report Reveals 12 Million Ugandans Face Multidimensional Poverty
A fresh Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics indicates that 12 million Ugandans endure multiple deprivations, far exceeding the 7.3 million identified by income-based measures alone. The government plans targeted interventions to tackle regional disparities, especially in hard-hit areas like Karamoja. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/12-million-ugandans-poor-new-report-5404596
A new Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report launched by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (Ubos) in Kampala shows that at least 12 million Ugandans are grappling with various forms of poverty and deprivation. This figure surpasses the government’s earlier estimate of 7.3 million poor people based purely on income levels.
Drawing from 2024 census data, the MPI assesses deprivations in key areas such as education, health, living standards, and employment. Nationally, the MPI stands at 0.27, indicating 27 percent of Ugandans face multiple hardships, with an incidence of 53 percent and intensity of 51 percent.
Regional disparities are stark. Karamoja tops the list with an MPI of 0.57, affecting 57 percent of residents, followed by West Nile at 39 percent, Sebei at 34 percent, and Acholi at 32 percent. In contrast, Kampala reports just 8 percent, and Buganda 18 percent. Rural areas fare worse at 32 percent MPI compared to 19 percent in urban zones, due to better infrastructure and services in cities.
Ubos officials detailed the indicators: education (schooling years and attendance), health (recent household deaths and insurance), and living standards (water, sanitation, fuel, housing, assets, and overcrowding). Unemployment deprivation affects households with working-age members actively seeking jobs.
State Minister for Planning Amos Lugoloobi highlighted government efforts, noting income poverty has dropped from 56 percent in 1992/93 to 16.1 percent recently, aided by programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM). He affirmed that the administration, alongside partners, is crafting region-specific strategies, including a new plan for Karamoja.
Lawmakers and experts urged better data use for interventions. While prior surveys showed lower MPI incidence, Ubos Executive Director Chris Mukiza stressed this census-based report as a new baseline. World Bank economist John Ilukol praised it for guiding poverty reduction programs.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)