The distribution of long-awaited iron sheets to reformed Karamojong warriors has commenced in the Karamoja sub-region, beginning with a launch in Abim district. The iron sheets, part of the government’s token to warriors who voluntarily surrendered their guns, were flagged off by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja in November 2023.
In the initial phase, 97,552 iron sheets will be distributed to 3,752 beneficiaries across all nine districts of Karamoja. The distribution, managed by the Office of the Prime Minister, aims to fulfill the government’s promise to support the reformed warriors in their pursuit of peace.
Samuel Kalisa Bigirwa, the Chief Administrative Officer, confirmed the receipt of 10,686 iron sheets in the first phase, benefiting 411 households in Abim district. The distribution started in Abim and is scheduled to continue to other districts in subsequent phases.
The iron sheets are intended for constructing houses, and local authorities are working to ensure a uniform design that is weather-friendly and cost-effective. Authorities emphasize the importance of constructing durable houses and discourage beneficiaries from selling the iron sheets.
James Shilaku, the Abim Resident District Commissioner, warned against selling the iron sheets and urged beneficiaries to focus on building houses to improve their livelihoods. He instructed security forces to monitor and arrest those attempting to sell the distributed materials.
Capt. Rtd. Juventine Omara, the LC5 chairperson of Abim district, highlighted challenges in the distribution process, including discrepancies in the beneficiary list and insufficient iron sheets for some sub-counties. He appealed to the government to procure more iron sheets to accommodate all deserving beneficiaries.
Norbert Katsirabo, the Commissioner of Pacification and Development at the Office of the Prime Minister, emphasized that the program’s goal is to enhance the living conditions of the Karamojong people. Each beneficiary is expected to receive 26 iron sheets, with 24 for house construction and four for toilets.
Simon Peter Lokeris, the State Minister for Minerals and Energy, presided over the launch and urged beneficiaries to use the iron sheets responsibly. Lokeris warned against negative attitudes toward building houses and stated that security teams would inspect and take action against those misusing or selling the provided resources.
