By Nathan Eyagu

Serere District – Hon. Hellen Adoa, the State Minister for Fisheries and Woman Member of Parliament for Serere District, has issued a stern warning about a possible food crisis looming in the near future. Speaking during her ongoing “Village to Village” campaign, Hon. Adoa urged residents to prioritize farming even as the political season intensifies.

While addressing community members across several villages, the Minister emphasized that the combination of a changing climate and increasing dependence on purchased food could push many households into hunger if urgent action is not taken.

“Right now, almost every family in Serere is living hand to mouth. People are already buying food — and yet we have land and rain. This is not sustainable,” she cautioned. “Next year, we as Ugandans may face a famine if we do not take advantage of this planting season.”

Hon. Adoa called on her supporters — particularly the youth — to embrace agriculture as a first priority before attending political rallies or meetings. She stressed that while civic participation is important, it should not come at the cost of food security.

“When it's campaign time in your village, attend. But on other days, please go to the garden,” she advised. “You can’t eat posters. Our future depends on the food we grow now.”

Her remarks come at a time when many areas across Eastern Uganda are experiencing early rains, providing an opportunity for early planting. The Minister’s message stands out as a rare call for balancing political engagement with personal responsibility and sustainability.

As part of her grassroots engagements, Hon. Adoa continues to encourage youth not only to get involved in farming but to view it as a key path to self-reliance.

“Our young people should not be idle in trading centers. Agriculture is not a punishment — it’s an opportunity. Let’s empower them to grow food, earn an income, and secure their future,” she said.

Hon. Adoa’s village-by-village campaign focuses not only on securing the NRM flag ahead of the primaries but also on delivering practical messages of development, peace, and responsibility. Her approach has drawn praise from residents who appreciate a leader willing to address both political and everyday survival issues.

“This is not just about elections. It’s about survival and dignity,” she added. “If we can’t feed ourselves, we are vulnerable — no matter who wins the vote.”

As the campaign season rolls on, Hon. Adoa’s message cuts through the noise — urging citizens to take immediate steps that will benefit them beyond the election year.

“Let us campaign wisely. Let us plant now, while the rain is here. That’s how we secure both our votes and our food,” she concluded.