The Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Hon. Peter Lokeris, along with senior security commanders and leaders from the Karamoja and Acholi sub-regions, have reaffirmed their commitment to ending criminal activities and fostering peaceful coexistence between the regions. This pledge was made during a joint security meeting held at the Kotido District Headquarters.
The meeting, led by Hon. Minister Lokeris, Maj. Gen. Don William Nabasa (Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division), and Brig. Gen. Keith Katungi (Commander of the 5th Infantry Division), aimed to address security and development issues affecting the districts of Kotido, Agago, Kitgum, and Abim.
“We must face and fight criminality squarely to maintain and sustain peace for development,” Hon. Lokeris emphasized. He urged senior leaders to actively engage with pastoral communities, promote unity, and create a roadmap for reconciliation and harmonious coexistence. “We must live and work in brotherhood,” he stressed.
Key topics discussed included the need for follow-up funding to renovate dams for livestock watering and commercial agriculture. Additionally, it was decided that the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development will be contacted to survey, demarcate, and clear contested district boundaries.
The political leadership of Kotido District, represented by Woman Member of Parliament Hon. Aleper Magret and Hon. Lotee Paul Komol (LC V CP), apologized to the Acholi people for criminal acts committed by some individuals from Kotido District. They committed to maintaining constant communication, coordination, and community mobilization to foster positive mindset change.
Hon. Christopher Obol (LC V Chairperson for Kitgum) and Hon. Okot Amos (Member of Parliament for Agago North) welcomed the apologies and called for practical solutions. They highlighted the historical peaceful coexistence between the Karamojong and Acholi communities, emphasizing that peace should not be compromised by criminal raids.
Hon. David Lagen, Member of Parliament for Agago County, stressed the importance of prioritizing peacebuilding in security measures and resolutions, advocating for compulsory education for the younger generation.
The joint security meeting also recognized the commendable efforts of the 3rd and 5th Infantry Divisions of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) in maintaining peace, despite facing operational challenges.
Attendees of the meeting included Members of Parliament from the Acholi sub-region, Abim, and Kotido districts, SCP Elias Kasirabo (Commandant ASTU), Resident District Commissioners, District Chairpersons, the Bishop of Kotido Catholic Diocese Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu, senior military and police officers, and representatives from various security agencies.
