agriculture 12 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Bunyoro Region Faces Food Insecurity Crisis

Bunyoro, once a thriving agricultural hub, is now grappling with severe food shortages due to a combination of factors including climate change and inadequate government support. The region's 'food basket' status is under serious threat. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/the-downfall-of-bunyoro-s-food-basket-5629226

Bunyoro, a region historically known as Uganda’s breadbasket, is experiencing a stark decline in food security. For the past three years, the once-fertile lands have struggled to yield sufficient harvests, leading to widespread concern among residents and agricultural experts.

The transformation of the region’s landscape has been dramatic and concerning. Erratic rainfall patterns, characterized by prolonged droughts and unseasonal floods, have devastated crops and livestock. Farmers, who have long relied on traditional farming methods, are finding it increasingly difficult to adapt to these unpredictable climatic shifts.

Compounding the environmental challenges, there are growing concerns about insufficient government intervention and support for the agricultural sector in Bunyoro. Critics argue that limited investment in modern farming techniques, irrigation infrastructure, and access to drought-resistant seeds has exacerbated the crisis. The lack of adequate support leaves local farmers vulnerable and unable to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

This situation has not only affected the availability of food but also the livelihoods of countless families dependent on agriculture. The decline in harvests has led to increased food prices, making it harder for many to afford essential food items. The region’s role as a critical supplier of food to other parts of the country is now in jeopardy, raising broader implications for national food security.

Urgent and comprehensive strategies are needed to revive Bunyoro’s agricultural productivity and ensure its long-term resilience. This includes immediate interventions to support farmers, alongside long-term plans for climate adaptation and sustainable agricultural practices.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)