Poor state of roads in West Nile leaves FDC in dispair

Highlights

• Several roads across the sub-region have been cut off due to the floods
• According to UNICEF statistics as recent as September 17, 2024, West Nile is the second poorest region in Uganda, with 76% of the population living in poverty.  

By Taibot Marko

Adjumani. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party President, Patrick Amuriat, has criticized the Ugandan government for failing to address the West Nile region’s critical challenges, including poor road network, the devastating effects of climate change, and high poverty levels.

Addressing a gathering of FDC supporters and residents in Adjumani town during a thanksgiving prayer for Mr. Patrick Tandrupasi, the former FDC flag bearer for the Adjumani West Constituency parliamentary seat, Amuriat expressed concern over the poor state of roads and worsening poverty in West Nile.

When West Nile bleeds, the whole country is affected. This region contributes significantly to Uganda’s economic success even amidst the poor road network

On the adverse effects of climate change, Amuriat blamed the government for neglecting the effects of climate change, which he said had worsened infrastructure and agricultural productivity in the sub- region.

“A government that cares about its people would have taken steps to mitigate its effects. The flooding of the Nile River has led to impassable roads and destroyed crops, such as cassava and sweet potatoes, threatening food security in the region,” he added.

According to UNICEF statistics as recent as September 17, 2024, West Nile is the second poorest region in Uganda, with 76% of the population living in poverty.

Also Read: Opinion: Roads or paths in West Nile! – West Nile Press

Former Obongi County Member of Parliament, Hassan Kaps Fungaroo, said the poor state of roads in Obongi, Moyo and Adjumani districts have left farmers unable to access markets and children unable to attend school.

“Most of the roads are cut off, and government programs have not helped the people to eradicate poverty. Take your time and talk to the beneficiaries of these programs; the evidence speaks for itself,” Fungaroo said.

Fr Andrew Inyaga, who led the thanksgiving prayer, emphasized the three critical challenges facing the region—poverty, ignorance, and disease. He called on the government to intervene and urged the community to foster unity for the sake of development.

“We need unity, especially during and after elections, to bring about meaningful progress in the region,” Fr. Inyaga said.

Patrick Tandrupasi, clarified that the purpose of the thanksgiving prayer was not political but rather a moment to foster unity and express gratitude to God and the community.

“Let us work together to achieve unity and development,” Tandrupasi said.

The FDC president’s visit and remarks have reignited debate on the socio-economic challenges facing West Nile.