Nearly 30% of Ugandans in Hunger Crisis

As the world commemorates World Food Day, a new study has highlighted the alarming prevalence of hunger in Uganda.

According to data collected by Twaweza East Africa between February and March, this year, 27% of Ugandans identify hunger as one of the most serious problems facing the country.

The study, which surveyed adults across the country, revealed stark regional disparities. In the northern region, 42% of adults cited hunger as a major concern, while in Greater Kampala, only 7% shared this view. The western and eastern regions reported rates of 30% and 25%, respectively.

“When asked about household experiences, the numbers were even more concerning. Nationwide, hunger emerged as the most serious problem facing households, with 55% of households in northern Uganda and 47% in eastern Uganda reporting food insecurity. In western Uganda, the figure stood at 38%,” said Marie Nanyanzi the Senior Program Officer, Twaweza East Africa.

The study also found that rural dwellers were more likely to experience food insecurity, with 32% citing it as a major challenge, compared to 16% in urban areas. 

Nanyanzi  emphasized the need to think about how to support households that are most involved in agriculture to overcome food insecurity.

The nationwide survey, cites the other most pressing challenges in Uganda as unemployment (39%) health services (39%)  cost of living/inflation (33%) and corruption (27%) among others.