Security representatives from various agencies convened to strategise on resolving escalating tensions in Apaa Land, a contested area in northern Uganda spanning Adjumani and Amuru districts.
Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, the 4 Infantry Division Commander, chaired the meeting in Gulu and emphasized the need to “work jointly as a security task force to ensure stability remains paramount in the area,” as officials reaffirmed their commitment to swiftly addressing the Apaa land conflict.
He directed regional security stakeholders to arrest ring leaders responsible for inciting inter-tribal conflicts in Apaa and those involved in the illegal sale of government land to prevent confrontations.
Additionally, Maj Gen Busizoori warned government officials against violating the Presidential Executive Order No. 3, which restricts charcoal burning and trade in the region. He emphasized that any officials found facilitating the movement of charcoal would face serious consequences.
He assured the committee that the matter would be escalated to other relevant government agencies, including the Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Forestry Authority, and the judiciary, to find a lasting solution to the crisis.
The Adjumani Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Taban Data Peter lauded Maj Gen Busizoori’s commitment to enforcing the Presidential directive on charcoal trade, citing its positive impact in curbing environmental degradation and climate change in the region.
The Aswa West Regional Police Commander (RPC), SSP Asiimwe Samuel, urged security personnel to adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) while executing their duties in compliance with the presidential directive.
He further cautioned the public against indiscriminate tree-cutting, which has contributed to desertification in the region. He stressed that individuals clearing land for agricultural purposes must seek authorization from district authorities before engaging in bush clearance.
The meeting was attended by Brigade rigade commanders, RDCs, RPCs, District Internal Security Officers (DISOs), Division Staff Officers and Regional Internal Security Officers (RISOs) from the Acholi and Madi sub-regions.
