Gulu, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — President Museveni has given an ultimatum to Balaalo herders with cattle on non-fenced land in the Greater North of Uganda, including Lango, Acholi, and West Nile, to vacate the region within three weeks. This directive was issued during the President’s visit to Okidi, Atiak sub-county in Amuru district, where he addressed concerns about the settlement of Balaalo in the area.
The President also ordered Balaalo occupying government land, such as Lakang and Aswa ranch, to leave. He provided a three-week grace period for the herders to transport their cattle, and he suggested that they should sell their cattle, as confiscation was not the immediate solution.
The conflict between Balaalo and the local population in the Greater North primarily revolves around crop destruction and land ownership issues. President Museveni stressed the need to address the problem of crop damage while leaving the issue of land ownership for later discussion. He also announced plans to draft a law that criminalizes this type of nomadism.
President Museveni emphasized the need to be careful when discussing the Balaalo issue, highlighting its sensitivity and potential to cause problems. He pointed out the importance of avoiding land fragmentation and encouraged the utilization of land for commercial agriculture.
The President also urged cultural leaders to adjust the laws governing clan land to facilitate development in the region. He promised to have a final meeting with different opinions on the Balaalo issue to reach a resolution.
Kilak North Member of Parliament, Mr. Anthony Akol, and Amuru District LC5 Chairperson, Mr. Michael Lakony, emphasized the adverse effects of Balaalo herders’ actions, including crop destruction and intimidation of local residents.
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The President’s visit aimed to address the ongoing concerns related to the presence of Balaalo in the region, as the issue has become a pressing concern for the local population.
I spent the afternoon in Amuru district with leaders from the Acholi sub-region discussing the issue of the nomadic pastoralists(Balalo). After listening to the various issues raised, I guided as follows:
1. Destruction of crops – I directed the UPDF Division Commander, RPC and… pic.twitter.com/SAn0dQTPEU
— Yoweri K Museveni (@KagutaMuseveni) November 3, 2023
