(Karamoja) – Leaders and security officials have emphasized unity and peaceful coexistence as the key to securing long-term peace in Karamoja, a region that has seen significant efforts to maintain stability. The call was made during a meeting held at Pian Upe Game Reserve headquarters in Nakapiripirit District.
Senior stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, commanders from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), and representatives from District Security Committees (DSC), gathered to discuss strategies for strengthening peace and addressing ongoing challenges.
Brigadier General Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the UPDF 3 Infantry Division, pointed to the relative calm in the region as a critical foundation for future progress. He urged all stakeholders to maintain momentum in peace-building efforts. “I urge all stakeholders not to engage reverse gear in peace-building efforts,” Brig Gen Sserunkuma said, stressing the importance of avoiding the defense of criminal activities and resolving disputes through established mechanisms.
Members of Parliament Hon Lolem Micah Akasile and Hon Betty Louke Chelain highlighted the need for timely conflict resolution and communal grazing initiatives to promote trust among the region’s communities, including the Pian, Pokot, and Sabiny groups. Deputy Resident District Commissioner Jimmy Tabanyang underscored the importance of swift action in addressing livestock theft and improving coordination between stakeholders.
The Deputy Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), SSP Latifu Zaake, emphasized the professionalism and impartiality of joint forces, urging collaboration to eliminate crime. Local government leaders from Nakapiripirit, Amudat, Nabilatuk, and Chepskunya echoed the importance of teamwork in disarming illegal gun holders and isolating criminals from the community.
Stakeholders encouraged communities to take advantage of the Amnesty program to surrender illegal firearms, while local and security officials committed to upgrading key roads like Pian Upe-Angisa and Lokoma-Karita-Lemusu. These infrastructure improvements aim to enhance mobility and service delivery in the region.
Community members proposed practical measures such as designated communal grazing areas and reserved farming zones, ensuring equitable access to resources during the dry season. The gathering concluded with a unified commitment from leaders, security officials, and the community to promote peace, stability, and development in Karamoja.