STEVEN ARION: Under a General Muhoozi Government, Karamoja Will Never Again Suffer Hunger — The Ankole Times

The persistent hunger crisis in Karamoja has continued for years, not necessarily because the region lacks potential, but because some of the key players entrusted with addressing the problem have, in my view, turned the region's challenges into an opportunity for personal gain. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has invested substantial public resources in efforts aimed at improving the welfare of the people of Karamoja. However, concerns about corruption, mismanagement and ineffective implementation have continued to raise questions about why the region still experiences severe food insecurity. Karamoja has fertile areas and hardworking people. One of the major challenges facing the region is prolonged drought. But even this challenge can be addressed through serious investment in irrigation and water infrastructure. Karamoja's proximity to major water bodies presents opportunities that, if properly explored, could transform agriculture in the region. Pumping and channelling water to areas suitable for farming could support large-scale irrigation and help make Karamoja one of Uganda's major food-producing regions. No Karimojong would want to depend on begging in the streets if their region had sustainable food production and reliable livelihoods. For years, there have been calls for the government to develop long-term solutions to Karamoja's water and agricultural challenges. In my opinion, the failure to make sufficient progress on such projects has allowed the hunger crisis to persist. There are also concerns that some officials may benefit from projects that fail to deliver lasting solutions. Allegations surrounding corruption, ghost projects and misuse of resources must be properly investigated, because Karamoja's people deserve to know how public funds allocated to their region are being used. The people of Karamoja need more than emergency food relief. They need sustainable solutions that can enable them to produce their own food, create businesses and build secure livelihoods. This is where I believe General Muhoozi Kainerugaba could offer a different approach if he eventually takes over the country's leadership. General Muhoozi has expressed interest in transforming Karamoja into a major food-producing region. If such a vision is backed by serious investment in irrigation, modern agriculture, roads, water infrastructure and markets, Karamoja could potentially become a food basket for Uganda and even contribute to regional food security. The mere possibility of Gen. Muhoozi contesting for the presidency in 2031 is already generating political discussion. Those who have benefited from weaknesses in government systems may naturally be concerned about a leadership that promises greater scrutiny and accountability. But political slogans alone will not end hunger in Karamoja. What the people need is a practical plan, strong institutions, accountability and sustained investment. Karamoja should not remain a region known for hunger, drought and begging. With the right leadership and proper utilisation of its resources, the region can become one of Uganda's agricultural powerhouses. I believe that under a leadership committed to that transformation, the story of hunger in Karamoja can eventually become history. The writer is a senior veteran journalist.