Vice President of Uganda, Rtd. Maj. Hon.Jesca Rose Alupo, has assured residents of eastern and northern Uganda that government is set to roll out the long awaited cattle compensation, following years of appeals from communities affected by past insurgencies.
The Vice President made the assurance on Sunday 1st February while addressing congregants during the pastoral visit of Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, at St. Simon Catholic Parish, Magoro, in Katakwi District.
Rtd. Hon. Alupo revealed that Cabinet is scheduled to sit on February 2 to deliberate on the implementation of the cattle compensation initiative, commonly referred to as the restocking program, which aims to compensate families for the lost livestock during the period of insecurity and armed conflict in eastern and northern Uganda.
“This is a matter that has been raised repeatedly by the people of this region, asking me and leader about it, and government has listened,” Alupo said.
“Cabinet will meet on February 2 to finalize discussions on cattle compensation, and once concluded, the program will commence.”
She further disclosed that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to officially launch the program, signaling government’s commitment to restoring livelihoods that were destroyed during years of insurgency, cattle rustling and displacement.
She also praised religious leaders for consistently advocating for peace, reconciliation and social justice in post-conflict communities.
According to her, the Church has played a critical role in healing wounds in elections and left by insurgency through spiritual guidance and community development initiatives.
She advised the people of Teso to be patient and wait for the right time, and then when the cattle come they should make the best us of them for eradicating poverty not again to misuse the opportunity.
Speaking during the same event during his homily, Bishop Joseph Eciru Oliach called upon Christians to live a life surrounded by the spirit of sharing with others and commitment to God in order to get His Blessings.
He further called upon Christians to embrace unity, forgiveness, and responsible stewardship as communities prepare to rebuild their livelihoods.
The pastoral visit attracted hundreds of faithful from across Katakwi District and neighboring areas. Bishop Eciru used the occasion to administer sacramentof Holy Matrimony, inspect parish projects and encourage Christians to remain steadfast in faith while actively participating in development.
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