Kotido, Uganda — Residents of Kotido district gathered at the court hall in the Northern and Central Division, while their Southern Division counterparts met at Kadapadook trading center for a baraza (public meeting) focused on service delivery. They engaged with local leaders and government officials to discuss the state of services in the district.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kotido, Charles Ichogor, who presided over the baraza, thanked the government for restoring relative peace in Kotido and Karamoja as a whole, which has allowed residents to focus on developing their livelihoods.
“Now that we have peace, it’s time for us to develop our livelihoods,” the RDC said. “Your lives should improve drastically, and we are committed to ensuring that our services are delivered efficiently and effectively.”
The baraza provided a platform for residents to share their concerns and suggestions on improving service delivery. The meeting also allowed local leaders and government officials to provide updates on ongoing development projects and initiatives.
During the meeting, residents raised questions and concerns on various topics, including health, education, water, government programs, and contested Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) land.
On health, Nangiro Betty asked about government plans to improve healthcare services in rural areas, while Lotee Moses inquired about the availability of essential medicines in local health centers. Ngiro Sarah requested more information on government initiatives to combat diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis.
On water, Loputan Ben asked about government plans to provide clean and safe drinking water to all communities, while Lokwiya Charles inquired about the maintenance of existing water sources and infrastructure. Apora Night requested more information on government initiatives to promote rainwater harvesting and conservation.
On government programs, Komol Thomas asked about government plans to improve roads and infrastructure, while Chilla Margaret inquired about the availability of funds for community development projects. Okello Samuel requested more information on government initiatives to promote education and skills development.
On UWA land, ApaLomonging Peter asked about government plans to address land conflicts between local communities and UWA in Kaspinya, while Akello Rose Lilly inquired about the compensation process for communities affected by UWA’s conservation efforts. Dedeng David requested more information on government initiatives to promote sustainable land use and conservation practices.
Residents of the Southern Division also raised issues specific to their area. These included the non-functional slaughter slab, water tank, and market shade, which have not been properly maintained or completed, despite being built a year ago.
Lokol Jane Akello, an elder from the Southern Division, expressed concern about the lack of access roads, which are hindering the movement of people and goods. She also highlighted land disputes affecting the construction of a health facility, with senior figures conflicting with authorities over land ownership.
Lokol Gilberto, another elder from the Southern Division, emphasized the need for better teacher accommodation, citing Panyangara Seed School, which only accommodates three teachers. He also requested that elders be included in income-generating activities and government programs.
Lodong John Bosco, a resident of the Southern Division, highlighted failing government projects and institutions in the area, often managed by the same individuals, leading to a monopoly. He also requested that the government provide tools for rubbish collection and waste management, as well as construct speed humps to improve road safety.
Woman MP Aleper, a participant at the baraza, expressed her gratitude to the RDC for organizing the initiative. She pledged to improve service delivery in education, while criticizing the current state of road works. She also expressed hope for enhanced healthcare services.
The RDC, in his final remarks, reassured attendees of his commitment to delivering better services without corruption. He encouraged the Karachina community to take advantage of vocational and skilling programs.
The baraza is part of the government’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in service delivery. Similar meetings are expected to be held in other parts of the district.
