OPM delivers food relief to hailstorm victims in Rukungiri

1 April 2025, 14:46

By Uziah Tusaasire

The hailstorms destroyed crops, including banana plantations, cassava, maize, and peas, exacerbating food insecurity in the region.

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has provided food relief to residents of Rukungiri municipality following devastating hailstorms that hit the area in February and March 2025, leaving 1,225 households in urgent need of assistance.

The hailstorms destroyed crops, including banana plantations, cassava, maize, and peas, exacerbating food insecurity in the region. In response, Rukungiri leaders petitioned the OPM for relief aid, prompting government intervention.

According to Paul Karenzi, the Deputy Town Clerk of Rukungiri municipality, who is overseeing the relief distribution, the aid package includes 6,122 kilograms of maize flour and 6,122 kilograms of beans.

Karenzi confirmed that distribution will begin tomorrow (Wednesday), 2nd April 2025, emphasising the urgency of providing support to affected families. He noted that the beneficiaries are from the Karangaro, Kitimba, and Northern A wards in the Western division of Rukungiri municipality.

While receiving the relief food at the Rukungiri municipal headquarters, Rukungiri municipality MP, Dr Elisa Rutahigwa, expressed gratitude to the OPM for stepping in to assist the affected residents.

“This gesture from the Office of the Prime Minister is intended to restore hope and nourishment to those struggling with the effects of the hailstorm,” Rutahigwa stated.

He urged the beneficiaries to use the food wisely as they work towards rebuilding their livelihoods.