ADDRESSING THE EGREGIOUS LEVELS OF POVERTY IN UGANDA

By Guest Writer

OPINION: The current situation in Uganda has evoked a range of emotions among the population, leaving them both alarmed and conflicted.

From devastating floods causing widespread destruction to distressing reports of security forces inflicting harm, what started as grievances has now escalated into alarming patterns.

It is disheartening to realize that those entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding citizens have become a cause for concern and a threat. These distressing actions, however, have underlying roots in the pervasive poverty levels among the Ugandan population.

Notably, Uganda is witnessing a rise in the frequency of floods, particularly during the rainy season. These environmental disasters have led to the loss of lives and extensive damage to homes, crops, and critical infrastructure such as roads and bridges.

The most vulnerable communities, often residing in unofficial settlements or areas with poor drainage, bear the brunt of these floods. Due to their financial constraints, they are compelled to live in environmentally sensitive locations like wetlands, forests, and even mountain slopes.

Unfortunately, their encroachment into these areas exacerbates the severe consequences, including displacement, property loss, and disruption of livelihoods, further perpetuating their cycle of poverty.

While grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods, Uganda is also faced with another distressing issue: the increasing instances of security personnel misusing firearms, resulting in the deaths of innocent civilians and even themselves.

This can also be attributed to the high poverty levels experienced by these security personnel. As human beings, they cannot function effectively on an empty stomach and, with families to provide for, the pressure they face is substantial and understandable.

However, these incidents have heightened tensions and unrest, eroding public confidence in the security apparatus. If left unaddressed, this trend could lead to a breakdown in law and order, posing a significant threat to national stability.

Considering their role in protecting the country, it is crucial that sustainable support is provided to these security personnel.

In addition to the aforementioned challenges, inadequate infrastructure takes a toll on Uganda’s economic growth. Poorly constructed roads pose a significant obstacle, as exemplified by the recent collapse of the Kabale-Kisoro road. While heavy rains may be a contributing factor, it also raises concerns about substandard work that fails to consider the area’s topography.

Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in facilitating economic development, and subpar roads hinder the transportation of people and goods, resulting in increased prices and reduced economic activity.

Furthermore, the lack of road maintenance contributes to a rise in accidents and fatalities. With the high levels of poverty and its recurring effects in Uganda it is very crucial to put great emphasis on the infrastructure development of Uganda so as to support the citizens.

It is evident that these persistent challenges have substantial consequences that can hinder Uganda’s from attaining her vision 2040 and commitments under the National Development Plan (iii).

The government must adopt a proactive approach to the poverty levels of citizens by making significant investments in sustainable agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and other green economic activities that have a potential to improve the citizens livelihoods while conserving the environment, and also implementing and enforcing regulations to mitigate flooding and enhance the capacity of the security personnel’s social and economic wellbeing.

Uganda finds itself at a critical juncture where timely action is paramount for sustainable development. By embracing these actions, the Ugandan government can steer the nation towards a brighter future.

Moreover, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of protecting and conserving the country’s natural resources, such as healthy wetlands, as they play a vital role in addressing global challenges related to climate change, human health, biodiversity, water security, and poverty.

The author is Babirye Jemimah Kassibo, Advocacy Officer at Citizens Concern Africa.

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