Joyce Namugambe
The Archbishop of the church of Uganda His Grace Samuel Steven Kazimba Mugalu has called upon government to urgently intervene in the numerous security issues affecting the people of Acholi region.
This came at a time when the people in the region including those in the districts of Pader, Lamwo, Agong, and Kitgum are raising issues of security threats which according to the Archbishop, need immediate attention.
His Grace mentioned the security issues that have been raised by Christians in the area such as Elephants from Kidepo National park which trespass and destroy people’s plantations and also endanger people’s lives, Karamojong’s raiding Acholi cattle and killing people, the Apaa land conflict between the Madi and Acholi, deforestation by charcoal burners, attack by South Sudanese among others, which must be given immediate attention.
The report from the Chairperson of Omiya Aminya West subcounty Peter Otto, indicated that his subcounty is among the sub counties that are being invaded by the Karamojong cattle raiders. The report showed that over 1200 house holds were directly or indirectly affected experiencing brutality, loss of cattle, goats, poultry, foodstuffs, agricultural crops, financial loss and irregular attendance of pupils at school especially in the affected areas.
The LC 3 chairperson of Orom subcounty Johnson Toodera reported that in his county, 24 people have been killed, 18 severally injured, 17 houses burnt and properties stolen. He added that in 2022 and 2023, 520 cattle, 2564 goats, and 130 sheep was stolen.
In his response, the Archbishop pledged to continue advocating and engaging duty bearers especially the president of Uganda, to find a lasting solution. He also promised to work together with the Archbishop of South Sudan Justin Mbadi to address the Sudanese attacks and advocate for peaceful coexistence. Additionally, he promised to work together with the Bishops of Karamojong and and the Bishops of the affected areas to join hands and fight against cattle rustling.
During his visit, the Archbishop paid a courtey visit to the minister of state for international relations in the ministry of internal affairs Hon Okello Oryem, and offered prayers to the mausoleum of the late His Excellency Tito Okello Lutwa who was Oryem’s father and former president of Uganda.
