The Kampala Archdiocese has launched an emergency humanitarian appeal, calling on Catholics and all people of goodwill across Uganda to support thousands of families facing severe hunger in the Karamoja sub-region.
The appeal was announced on Friday in a statement issued on behalf of the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, and delivered by the Vicar General of Kampala Archdiocese, Msgr. Rogers Kabuye Mukasa.
According to the statement, the appeal follows a request from the Bishop of Kotido Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu, who urged the Archdiocese to mobilize nationwide support in response to the worsening food crisis in Karamoja.
Archbishop Ssemogerere said the humanitarian situation in the region had deteriorated significantly, leaving many vulnerable families without adequate food and at risk of starvation. He emphasized the need for an immediate and coordinated response to provide food and other essential relief items to affected communities.
The appeal also follows a recent directive by the Uganda Episcopal Conference urging Catholic dioceses across the country to stand in solidarity with the people of Karamoja as they grapple with escalating food insecurity.
The Archbishop said the Church has a moral and spiritual obligation to respond to the suffering of those in need, especially during times of crisis, by ensuring that relief reaches the most vulnerable without delay.
To facilitate the relief campaign, the Kampala Archdiocese has designated the Caritas Kampala offices on Old Ggaba Road in Nsambya, near the U.S. Embassy, as the official collection centre for donations. Members of the public are encouraged to contribute food items, essential relief supplies, and financial support.
The Archdiocese said it is working closely with Caritas Uganda, which will coordinate the collection, transportation and distribution of relief items to ensure transparency, accountability and efficient delivery to the affected communities.
Church leaders appealed to Christians to translate their faith into practical acts of compassion by supporting families suffering from hunger and hardship. The statement referenced 1 John 3:17, which challenges believers to show compassion to those in need, and Matthew 25:35–36, where Jesus calls on His followers to feed the hungry, care for the sick and support the vulnerable.
The Archdiocese also expressed gratitude to individuals, parishes, religious institutions and organizations that have already contributed to relief efforts, while encouraging more Ugandans to respond through donations, prayers and other acts of charity.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over food insecurity in Karamoja, where prolonged hardship has left many households struggling to meet their basic food needs. Church leaders said collective action and solidarity are critical to restoring hope and dignity to families affected by the crisis.
The Kampala Archdiocese expressed confidence that with the generosity of Ugandans and coordinated efforts through the Church, the relief campaign will help ease the suffering of thousands of vulnerable people in Karamoja.