Delayed onset of the secondary season rainfall coupled with sharp increase in fighting in northern Uganda has severely affected the food supply situation with more than half a million people requiring immediate humanitarian assistance. Crop failure in the north-eastern region of Karamoja due to long dry spells in the recently concluded only cropping season of the region has also aggravated the food difficulties.
Pasture conditions in several districts of the country including Mbarara, Ntungamo and Rakai in south-western Uganda and Kotido, Moroto and Nakapiripirit in north-eastern Uganda have deteriorated due to severe moisture stress. However, minimal livestock migration to dry season grazing areas were reported. Recent rainfall in the south-western “cattle corridor” has also replenished water and pasture.
Overall stable crop prices continue to favour household access to food. However, the intensification of conflict and insecurity in northern parts have displaced a large number people, adding to the large IDP population. Nearly 1.5 million people are currently being assisted by WFP in several parts of the country.