Kiryajobyo Residents continue lamentations over unfulfilled promises over EACOP

Residents of Kiryajobyo West Village in Gayaza Sub County, Kyankwanzi District, say they are living in frustration and grief after what they describe as unfulfilled promises of food support following the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) construction activities in their area.

The residents expected to receive food assistance after the pipeline project bypassed their community. However, they say the promised support has not materialized, leaving some households struggling to meet their daily food needs.

Residents say the situation has created disappointment, particularly among families that had anticipated the assistance as a form of support during a period when they were experiencing economic difficulties.

For households that depend largely on farming and other small-scale economic activities, residents say the absence of the expected support has added to their difficulties.

“We were hopeful that the food support would come, but up to now we are still waiting. This has left many people disappointed and worried about how they will manage,” Atimango Annette one of the residents said.

Residents argue that clear communication is needed to explain what happened to the promised assistance and whether the support will eventually be provided.

Community members are calling on local leaders and relevant stakeholders to come to the village, listen to their concerns and clarify the commitments that were made to them.

They say that if food assistance was formally promised, there should be transparency about when it will be delivered and which households are eligible to receive it.

Residents also want future engagements with communities to be accompanied by clear information about timelines, responsibilities and the nature of any support being offered.

The residents say their main concern is not only the food itself but also the feeling of being left without answers.

They are therefore appealing to local leaders and project stakeholders to organize a community dialogue where residents can raise their concerns and receive clear responses.

As Uganda continues to implement major infrastructure projects, residents in affected communities say development should be accompanied by meaningful engagement, transparency and attention to the welfare of local people.

STORY BY OLIVE NYAMAHUNGE