Acholi MPs Escalate Concerns Over Road Carnage and Drought

Lawmakers from the Acholi region have issued a strong appeal to the government to address critical issues plaguing their constituents. Their immediate focus is the alarming frequency of fatal road accidents on the Kampala-Gulu highway, compounded by a devastating drought.

The concerns were amplified following a tragic crash this past Tuesday that resulted in 15 fatalities and left 24 individuals injured. Catherine Lamwaka, the Chairperson of the Acholi Parliamentary Caucus, emphasized the need for enhanced regulatory measures to curb reckless driving and speeding along this busy route.

Beyond accident prevention, the MPs are advocating for increased financial support for victims of road crashes and their families. Lamwaka proposed doubling compassionate assistance for bereaved families from Shs5 million to Shs10 million and raising aid for the injured from Shs1 million to Shs5 million, stressing that these funds must be disbursed promptly, ideally before burials.

The drought crisis in Acholi also demands urgent attention, with lawmakers warning of potential food insecurity. They are calling for emergency food supplies and seeds to support affected communities, with some acknowledging the grim prospect of families going without meals.

Furthermore, the caucus is pressing the government to expedite the implementation of irrigation projects previously approved by Parliament. They believe that improved water infrastructure is crucial for building resilience against future droughts and ensuring agricultural stability in the region.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/355129/acholi-mps-demand-action-on-kampala-gulu-road-carnage-drought-crisis