By Patriots Corps
The Chinese government has announced the donation of 1,600 tonnes of rice to aid over half a million people in Karamoja grappling with a severe hunger crisis. This announcement was made today by the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Zhang Lizhong, during a meeting with Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in Kampala.
Ambassador Zhang Lizhong emphasized that the donation is a direct response to the acute food insecurity in Karamoja, a region heavily affected by harsh climatic conditions. The area faces limited surface water, high temperatures, and a brief rainy season that often results in soil erosion and land degradation, exacerbating food shortages.
Prime Minister Nabbanja expressed Uganda’s heartfelt gratitude for the timely intervention, highlighting the importance of such partnerships in addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable populations. “This generous support comes at a critical moment when the people of Karamoja are in desperate need of relief,” she stated.
The rice is scheduled to arrive in Uganda by December 2024, bringing hope to the region’s struggling communities. The donation underscores the long-standing and robust relationship between Uganda and China, which continues to be a pillar of mutual development and cooperation.
Key figures in attendance included Karamoja Affairs Minister Peter Lokeris, State Minister for Disaster Preparedness Lilian Aber, Minister for Kampala Hajat Minsa Kabanda, and Permanent Secretary Dunstan Balaba. Their presence signified the government’s commitment to ensuring the effective delivery and distribution of the relief food.
This initiative reinforces the spirit of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian challenges and emphasizes China’s ongoing support for Uganda in times of crisis.
