By Emmanuel Olinga
There is a heavy deployment of Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) along the border of Katakwi and Napak districts following a two-day land dispute between the Iteso and Karimojong communities.
The conflict, which broke out between residents of Acuna Village in Ongongoja Sub-county (Katakwi District) and those from Napak District, has heightened tensions in the area.
According to Brigadier General Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the UPDF 3rd Division, the dispute escalated on Saturday when suspected Karimojong cattle rustlers reportedly stole 13 goats belonging to the Teso community.
In response, the UPDF has established a permanent deployment in the area to maintain peace and prevent further violence.
“The UPDF will ensure stability in the region as leaders from both districts work towards a peaceful resolution,” Brig. Gen. Sserunkuma said.
However, he also condemned certain leaders from Napak for allegedly fueling the conflict for personal gain.
“It’s unfortunate that some leaders are inciting the community for their own selfish interests,” he added.
The UPDF, in collaboration with police, has launched investigations to identify individuals responsible for instigating the tribal clashes.
Some leaders from Napak are being accused of attempting to grab land under the guise of the conflict.
The army’s intervention aims to restore calm and allow both communities to address the dispute amicably.
According to Brig. Gen. Sserunkuma, animal recovery efforts have so far reached 80%.
Security agencies have assured the public of their commitment to investigating the root causes of the conflict and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
Vincent Savior Okwi, Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Katakwi, confirmed that tensions had reached a critical level over the past two days, with both communities threatening violence.
However, the arrival of UPDF troops helped calm the situation.
“The conflict flared up when members of the Karimojong community allegedly crossed over to plough gardens in Teso,” Okwi said.
“For now, we are working to stabilize the area before engaging both communities and their leaders in dialogue to find a lasting solution.”
Vice President Rtd. Maj. Jessica Alupo also weighed in on the situation, urging security forces to maintain stability in the region.
She warned residents against selling land, emphasizing that such practices are a major factor behind ongoing land disputes in various communities.
“We must stop the illegal and careless sale of land. It is creating more divisions and insecurity among our people,” Alupo said.
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