We reported earlier this week about the growing concern among Katine farmers over food shortages in the sub-county and across the Soroti district. The government has officially named Soroti as one of 17 districts in the north and east of Uganda now experiencing famine. While Katine has not reached this level, food shortages and rising prices have indicated a potential crisis.
Amref, which is implementing the three-year development project in Katine, funded by Guardian readers and Barclays, has sent me an update on what the team is doing in the region to monitor the situation.
Random nutritional surveys of children aged from birth to nine-years-old are being undertaken at health clinics and primary schools to determine whether malnutrition has spiked. Changes in nutritional levels among children are considered an important indicator of food shortages.
Amref also said it is working with the Soroti district council to plan a coordinated response to the situation, both as it currently stands and in a worst-case scenario. The NGO is also lobbying the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness to include Katine in its plans for emergency relief, should it become necessary.
Amref has also initiated discussions with the World Food Programme in the Teso region to ensure a smooth emergency response if one is needed.
We'll keep you updated.
