The local communities in Gulu District have been warned against damaging road reserves by laying bricks along the sides. Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC) Cosmas James Okidi issued the stern warning on radio speak FM on Monday, January 22, 2024.
“Many roads are being damaged by locals making bricks along the roadsides,” DRDC Okidi stated. “We have vast swathes of unused land, yet people choose to encroach on roads. Why?”
He attributed the practice to laziness among some youths and declared a crackdown. “I am launching operations to arrest and prosecute anyone found damaging road reserves,” he warned.
DRDC Okidi also expressed concern about the rising number of stray animals causing damage to crops and posing traffic hazards. “Cattle keepers are releasing their animals to roam freely, trampling on crops like potatoes, cassava, cowpeas, and sorghum, and causing accidents on roads,” he explained.
He appealed to local leaders, including LC1 chairpersons, LC2 councilors, Rwot Kweri chiefs, and sub-county officials, to implement the “Animals Straying Act” immediately to curb the problem before it escalates.
“I commend the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer for writing to all sub-county authorities urging them to act,” DRDC Okidi added. “I pray for positive results.”
He reminded everyone that the Ugandan Constitution, under Article 203 and Section 70 of the Local Government Act, empowers the DRDC as Head of Security to maintain peace and security. “Anyone violating these laws will be dealt with accordingly,” he concluded.
