The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division convened an inter-agency security meeting in Moroto to review the security situation in South Karamoja and strengthen joint efforts to consolidate peace.

The meeting was chaired by the Division Commander, Brig Gen Michael Walaka Hyeroba, and focused on livestock and illegal firearms recovery, cross-border cattle theft, land-related conflicts, protection of protected kraals during the rainy season and enhanced inter-agency cooperation.

Brig Gen Hyeroba commended security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and urged them to strengthen coordination to address emerging security challenges.

“We need to consolidate the peaceful environment in place. We don’t need to lose the gains so far made by the regional security stakeholders,” he said.

He emphasised that protecting lives and property, recovering illegal firearms and addressing criminality remain key responsibilities of security agencies in supporting socio-economic transformation.

Moroto Resident District Commissioner, Benon Kwikiriza, observed that improved security had attracted investors interested in the region.

“Moroto is the heart of Karamoja which must be secured. Let us together make Karamoja secure for us all,” the RDC said.

The RDCs across Karamoja sub-region welcomed the initiative, describing inter-agency meetings as important platforms for identifying security challenges and developing joint responses.

Karamoja has witnessed consistent livestock theft in recent years, leading to a number of security-led operations to avert the crime.