Uganda

While Uganda has progressively undergone social and economic growth and transformation, the country’s remains a risk to inclusive economic growth.

Uganda is ranked 159 out of 193 countries on the Human Development Index, according to the Human Development Report 2023. Despite its agricultural potential and significant exports, Uganda’s food insecurity levels remain classified as ‘serious’ by the 2023 Global Hunger Index, posing further challenges to the country’s ability to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 on Zero Hunger.

An increasing frequency of droughts and floods heightens the vulnerability of Uganda’s smallholder farmers, in a country reliant on rain-fed agriculture. 

The country continues to host Africa’s largest number of refugees, with over 1.6 million refugees and asylum seekers from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Somalia, Rwanda, Burundi and other countries. Despite Uganda’s progressive refugee policy providing land and freedom of movement, refugees continue to face significant livelihood, food security and economic constraints.

One in four children in Uganda are stunted (impaired growth due to malnutrition) an irreversible condition. Poor-quality diets are creating health crises, undermining human capital development, and jeopardizing economic prosperity in Uganda. Malnutrition remains especially concerning in the semi-arid northeastern region of Karamoja.

The Government has made strides in addressing poverty and vulnerability through various social protection initiatives. However, scope and coverage remain limited amid increasing needs. WFP supports the Government in helping vulnerable and food-insecure populations meet their basic needs and building resilience.