The long-awaited iron sheets have finally arrived in Karamoja, marking a significant step in the Government’s efforts to support reformed rustlers and vulnerable families in the region.
The distribution, which is part of the second phase of a government initiative, will see 100,000 iron sheets delivered to families across the nine districts of Karamoja, including Napak, Moroto, Amudat, Nabilatuk, Nakapiripirit, Kaabong, Abim, Kotido, and Karenga.
Each household is set to receive 26 iron sheets, with 22 allocated for constructing family homes and the remaining four designated for kitchen structures.
The delivery of these iron sheets is expected to provide much-needed relief to residents, especially as they struggle with climate change-induced challenges, such as the scarcity of grass for thatching traditional huts.
Speaking at the distribution ceremony in Matany sub-county, Napak district, State Minister for Karamoja Affairs Florence Wamala Nambozo emphasized the importance of peace and security in the region.
She urged reformed rustlers to encourage illegal gun holders to surrender their weapons, noting that Karamoja’s development had been hindered for decades by insecurity.
She also highlighted the region’s untapped potential, pointing to its vast land and mineral resources.
The arrival of the iron sheets comes after the 2023 scandal in which high-ranking government officials were accused of diverting supplies meant for Karamoja.
The relaunch of the distribution demonstrates the Government’s renewed commitment to fulfilling its promises and improving the livelihoods of the people in the sub-region.
Local leaders have welcomed the long-overdue distribution. Napak District Chairperson John Paul Kodet acknowledged that residents had been eagerly waiting for the iron sheets and praised security forces for restoring peace in the area.
“Now that peace has returned, we must ensure Karamoja does not slide back into anarchy,” he said, encouraging former rustlers to embrace government development initiatives.
Napak Resident District Commissioner Milton Odongo also hailed the distribution as a crucial step in addressing the pressing needs of the community.
He pointed out that Karamoja has been severely affected by climate change, making iron sheet distribution even more critical.
“Families can no longer find grass to thatch their huts, so these iron sheets come at a crucial time,” Odongo stated.
With the iron sheets now in place, the focus shifts to ensuring they are used effectively to improve living conditions and support long-term development in Karamoja.
The Government continues to urge residents to invest in permanent housing solutions and take advantage of available resources to build a more sustainable future.
