Security operatives in Lamwo and Kitgum districts have intercepted two lorries carrying 34 head of cattle suspected to belong to the Balalo pastoralists.
The animals were being transported through Pajimo enroute to Palabek Gem sub-county in Lamwo district.
According to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Lamwo, William Komakech, the owner of the livestock identified as Okello David, a resident of Palabek Gem failed to follow the legal procedure for moving cattle across district borders. This includes securing clearance and documentation from the District Veterinary Officer (DVO).
“The animals were impounded because there was no official clearance from the veterinary authorities. The movement of cattle without proper documentation raises concerns about disease control and violation of the President’s Executive Order regarding the Balaalo,” RDC Komakech stated.
The Presidential Executive Order, issued by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, mandates strict regulation of cattle movement, particularly from the western to northern parts of Uganda, where tensions have escalated over land use, grazing rights, and destruction of crops.
“This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to implement the presidential directive on regulating the activities of the Balaalo and ensure that livestock movement is controlled, monitored, and legally approved,” Komakech emphasized.
District leaders in Lamwo have stepped up surveillance along major routes, including border points and feeder roads, to prevent unauthorized entry of cattle.
The latest interception comes amid growing local concerns over the influx of pastoralists and the potential impact on landowners and crop farmers.
The impounded cattle are currently being held as investigations continue. Authorities have warned that all future livestock movements must strictly adhere to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and any breaches will lead to confiscation and possible prosecution.
Local leaders and community members have commended the security agencies for enforcing the directive, calling for continued vigilance to protect the interests of indigenous land users.
Community reactions
Local residents in Palabek and surrounding areas have expressed relief at the interception, saying the unchecked influx of Balaalo cattle in recent years has led to widespread destruction of crops and encroachment on communal land.
“We have suffered enough,” said Alice Acan, a farmer from Palabek Ogili. “These herdsmen bring hundreds of cattle that trample our gardens at night. If the government does not act, we will not have food.”
Geoffrey Oryem, another farmer in Pajimo Kitgum district, echoed similar concerns. “We appreciate the action taken by the RDC and security teams.
“Our people are peaceful, but we feel ignored when strangers with no respect for our land rights come in large numbers with cattle. Enforcement of the executive order is long overdue.”
David Okeny, a concerned resident of Palabek sub-county in Lamwo district said the continued arrival of unregulated cattle threatens both livelihoods and social cohesion.
“We must act to protect the dignity of our communities. This is not about rejecting others but about following the law and protecting our people from exploitation,” Okeny said.
Way forward
The Lamwo District Veterinary Office has since confirmed that no movement permit was issued for the intercepted cattle, adding that routine checks will continue to be conducted at all livestock entry points.
The intercepted cattle are currently being held in a secured holding ground as authorities continue investigations.
Komakech warned that any future breaches of the law regarding animal movement will attract serious penalties, including impounding livestock and prosecution of offenders.
District leaders have called upon residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements of animals to local authorities.
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