news 17 July 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Parliament Unites to Tackle Northern Uganda's Drought and Hunger Crisis
Members of Parliament have unanimously backed a motion calling for immediate government action to combat the severe drought and hunger plaguing Northern Uganda. The resolution urges expanded humanitarian aid and investment in long-term climate resilience strategies. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4503/members-back-motion-counter-drought-hunger-northern-uganda
Lawmakers have thrown their full support behind a motion demanding urgent government intervention to alleviate the escalating drought and hunger crisis gripping Northern Uganda. The proposal, spearheaded by Kilak North County MP Hon. Anthony Akol, calls for a directive to the government to bolster humanitarian assistance and invest in measures that build resilience against climate change.
Akol emphasized the critical need for immediate food aid and agricultural inputs for households devastated by crop failure due to the prolonged dry spell. He urged the government to expedite the delivery of essential food items, alongside seedlings and planting materials, to enable affected populations to utilize the upcoming planting season.
Furthermore, the motion advocates for strengthening climate resilience through the implementation of early warning systems to provide farmers and local authorities with timely weather information. It also pushes for the swift deployment of $38 million from the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund IV (NUSAF IV) Disaster Risk Financing Facility to address the severe drought impacting various regions, including West Nile, Acholi, Lango, Karamoja, Teso, Bukedi, Bunyoro, and the Elgon sub-region.
Akol warned that the situation has transcended agricultural challenges, evolving into a full-blown humanitarian emergency with reported fatalities from hunger, particularly among vulnerable groups. Legislators shared grave concerns, highlighting the extensive crop losses and the devastating impact on livelihoods.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja assured Parliament that the government has already initiated emergency interventions. She confirmed that Cabinet has discussed the crisis, and President Yoweri Museveni has directed the Office of the Prime Minister, in coordination with the army, to oversee emergency food distribution. Food stocks are reportedly being positioned, and transport arrangements are in place to reach the most affected districts, with distribution set to commence imminently.
Source: Parliament of Uganda