Dokolo, Uganda – In the wake of severe flooding affecting Dokolo North Constituency, Dokolo North Parliamentary aspirant Joseph Jones Ogwal has called for urgent government intervention and the establishment of a task force to ensure timely and effective responses to future disasters.
Speaking at a relief distribution event organized by the Dokolo North Community Initiative (DNCI) on December 28, 2024, at Kachung Primary School in Agwata Sub County, Ogwal emphasized the importance of vulnerability assessments to predict and respond to such disasters.
“Ogwal Jones vowed to conduct vulnerability assessments, predicting what will happen in the future and drawing up budgets early to ensure timely responses,” Ogwal said. “We need to work with frontline communities and those directly affected by floods to conduct vulnerability assessments. Such information helps the district respond quickly when disasters strike.”
Ogwal also expressed frustration over the district’s inability to prepare adequately for disasters.
“Disasters in Dokolo District often strike when the district isn’t prepared,” he said. “We must avoid this cycle of reactionary responses and ensure we have the necessary systems in place.”
To address this issue, Ogwal proposed the establishment of a task force on standby to address any future disasters.
“When a vulnerability assessment is done, the task force can issue warnings, alerting people when certain areas are at risk,” he explained. “A well-prepared task force can ensure timely responses, preventing the district from scrambling for resources after a disaster has already occurred.”
He tasked district councilors to pass a resolution to set up such a task force.
“This is not just about relief, but about long-term management of these problems,” Ogwal said. “We need a scientific approach, from knowledge gathering to investigation, and determining solutions.”
Ogwal’s call for proactive disaster preparedness was echoed by several key stakeholders, including James Otto Apili, the District Chairperson of Dokolo District.
In his remarks, Otto praised DNCI’s efforts, calling them extraordinary.
“What I have seen here today is something I thought only the affluent could do,” Otto said. “It’s heartwarming to see such compassion within our community. Local initiatives are crucial in disaster response, but we need more than this. We need a comprehensive strategy that involves the government.”
Dokolo North MP Hon. Moses Ogwal Goli, a member of DNCI, also committed to supporting Ogwal’s vision for disaster preparedness.
“Our people are suffering, and we must all do our part to alleviate their pain,” he said. “This is not just an act of charity; it’s a commitment to the values of solidarity and humanity.”
Ogwal Goli donated Ugx 1.1 million worth of relief items, including cassava flour, soap and salt, further supporting the victims of the floods. However, he emphasized that providing relief alone isn’t sufficient.
“We need to think beyond immediate assistance. Long-term strategies like the establishment of a task force are essential,” Ogwal Goli said.
Professor Constant Okello Obura, chairperson of DNCI and a lecturer at Makerere University, also highlighted the importance of community unity and the role of education in fostering such initiatives.
“This milestone is a testament to the generosity and commitment of our members,” Obura said. “Many of us are able to give back because of the education and opportunities we’ve been blessed with, and we believe it’s our duty to support our community.”
Okello Obura further emphasized that DNCI’s efforts go beyond the immediate crisis.
“We have previously supported the community during the COVID-19 pandemic with supplies like facemasks and sanitizers,” he said. “Our work is about building resilience, and today’s disaster underscores the need for a proactive approach to disaster preparedness.”
The flooding has displaced numerous families, including vulnerable individuals such as 85-year-old Patrick Otom and 105-year-old Elizabeth Okullo.
These cases have further highlighted the urgency of sustainable disaster response mechanisms.
Ogwal’s vision for a task force, supported by the contributions of DNCI members and local leaders, aims to ensure that future disasters are met with timely and well-coordinated efforts.
The event on December 28, 2024, showcased the strength of community unity, but as leaders call for government action, it becomes clear that more long-term solutions are needed to mitigate future crises.
