Steven Ariong, Nabilatuk – The Karimojong pastoralists of Nakapiripirit and Nabilatuk District have agreed with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to conserve and protect wildlife as the two coexist.
This was resolved on Saturday in a meeting called by the Minister of Karamoja Affairs, Mr. Peter Lokeris Aimat, and attended by UWA officials, the Member of Parliament for Pian County, Mr. Remigio Achia, and district chairpersons.
The meeting was held in Lolacat Sub County along the road that connects Katakwi to Nabilatuk.
The pastoralists admitted they have made mistakes in the past by killing animals but vowed it will not happen again and urged the Uganda Wildlife Authority to allow them to graze their livestock along the protected area.
Mr. James Okware, the senior warden officer in charge of Pian Upe Game Reserve, was not entirely convinced but warned the pastoralists never to enter the game reserve with their dogs or spears.
He also cautioned them against allowing children to look after the animals, stating that children must be in school.
Mr. Lokeris emphasized that there should be no conflict between humans and wildlife, adding that the two can coexist.
He directed that anyone found poaching animals must be dealt with according to Ugandan laws.
“In other countries, wildlife moves freely among the kraals. Why is that not happening here? We must love our animals; let’s not kill them or burn the bushes.”
Mr. Remigio Achia, the Member of Parliament for Pian County, stated that the community can be the best protectors of wildlife.
