More than 200 farmers in Kisukuma Sub-county, Hoima District, are counting losses after a devastating hailstorm destroyed crops and homes, leaving several families homeless.
The storm, which struck on Sunday evening, heavily affected the villages of Kyakasaato, Bukona, Kyakayaya, Kikonkona, and Haibale. At least 10 houses were destroyed, forcing many residents to spend the night in the open.
Farmers report widespread destruction of crops, including maize, beans, bananas, rice, cassava, sweet potatoes, and tobacco, raising fears of an impending food shortage. Residents are now appealing to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) for urgent relief food, warning that the loss of their gardens could lead to famine.
Johnmary Busobozi, the LCI Chairperson of Kyakasaato village, said more than 100 homesteads in his area alone have lost crops. He warned that the scale of destruction could trigger a food crisis if no immediate intervention is made.
One of the affected farmers, Gerevansio Ongyer, said his four acres of maize and beans were completely wiped out by the hailstorm, leaving him with no hope of harvest. Emmanuel Okumu, another farmer, called on the government to provide fast-maturing seedlings to help families recover and replant.
Vincent Odaga, a resident of Bukona village, described the hailstorm as unprecedented in the area and expressed concern over its likely impact on household incomes and food security.
Local leaders have also appealed for urgent government support. Darlson Kusiima, the District Female Councillor representing Kisukuma and Bombo sub-counties, urged authorities to provide relief items, particularly for families whose homes were destroyed.
John Kwemara, the LCV Councillor for Kisukuma Sub-county, said leaders are compiling a list of affected residents and damaged property to submit to the Office of the Prime Minister for assistance.
SOURCE: URN
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