WFP launches second phase of strengthening food security in Karamoja

The World Food Programme (WFP) has launched the second phase of the Karamoja Feeds Karamoja Initiative, a homegrown school feeding program aimed at empowering local communities to cultivate their own food.

Under this initiative, farmers sell their surplus produce to WFP, which then provides nutritious meals to schools in the region

“We are very excited about this project,” said Marcus Prior, Acting Country Director of WFP. “We are looking forward to buying food from Karamoja, and the cycle will continue year after year.”

The program will be implemented in select agricultural-supporting districts of Karamoja, targeting 216,000 children across 320 primary and secondary schools with daily hot meals

The Government of Uganda has pledged shs500 million annually for the next five years to support the initiative, while the Lions Club International Foundation has already contributed $1 million to enhance food security efforts

Dr. Patti Hill, Country Director of Lions Club International, emphasized their commitment to the initiative. “During our regional tour with WFP, we met local leaders, visited schools, and engaged with community projects. Our main goal is to support food security,” she said

Local farmers are now producing grains, ensuring a direct supply of quality food to schools.

In Karenga, residents have integrated fish farming with vegetable cultivation, further enhancing nutrition and economic resilience.

By strengthening local food systems, the initiative aims to improve food security, boost nutrition, and increase school attendance through a stable and sustainable meal supply

Local leaders have pledged their commitment to supporting the program’s success. “The homegrown school feeding program improves enrollment and retention of children in Karamoja schools,” said Meri Jino, LC5 Chairperson of Kaabong

Peter Lokeris, Minister for Karamoja Affairs, acknowledged WFP’s long-standing partnership in improving livelihoods in the region.

“WFP has helped improve livelihoods in Karamoja. Farmers are now able to produce a variety of crops, including beans and maize, in bulk, which are sold to WFP. This enhances the capacity of farmers,” he said.