The State Minister of Tourism, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, expresses deep concern over the current state of the Barlonyo Massacre site in Lira District. This site, where on February 21, 2004, over 300 individuals lost their lives to LRA rebels in an Internally Displaced People’s Camp (IDPC), holds significant historical importance. The victims were laid to rest in a mass grave at the location.
Despite commitments made by the Ministry of Tourism in 2019 to develop the site into a tourist attraction, it has been disheartening to find that the area has instead been transformed into a marketplace. Vendors now display their wares on the monument, while the surrounding grounds are used as a grazing area for livestock.
Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny, the Minister of State for Northern Uganda, expresses her disappointment during the 20th memorial ceremony held at the site. She emphasizes the need for local leaders to safeguard the site’s integrity while awaiting permanent interventions from the Tourism Ministry. Additionally, she mentions the government’s plans to compensate survivors of the massacre.
Similarly, Minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka stresses the importance of preserving the site, not only for survivors but for the broader community as well. Local leaders advocate for fencing off the area to prevent further misuse, both by stray animals and individuals.
Patrick Abal, Minister of Tourism at Lango Cultural Foundation, urges the Ministry to enhance the Barlonyo Memorial site, proposing it as a central location for commemorating all massacre sites in the Lango region. Minister Mugarra encourages cultural leaders to take a leading role in this initiative.
Bishop Emeritus Alfred Acur Okodi, reflecting on the apathy of the local community towards the site, calls for psychosocial support to address the emotional needs of the residents. Notably, between 2010 and 2013, the Ministry of Tourism, with support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, undertook renovations at the site, including the construction of a documentary resource center and spaces for local women to sell crafts to tourists.
As efforts continue to address the challenges facing the Barlonyo Massacre site, there is a collective call for respect, preservation, and dignity in honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in this tragic event.
