The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (D/RDC) of Kaabong, Mr Loluk Logwee Fedelisi, has commended the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for successfully restoring peace and security across the Karamoja sub-region, particularly in Kaabong district.
“We’re enjoying peace in all corners of Kaabong district and Karamoja Sub-region at large, and I attribute this achievement to the NRM government in conjunction with UPDF and other security agencies,” Mr Loluk stated during a press briefing at the Kaabong district headquarters.
He acknowledged the Ugandan government’s strategic initiative of disarming the Karamojong communities, which has led to significant improvements in regional stability. He noted that peace has allowed the population to engage in productive activities, such as agriculture, helping to address food insecurity.
Mr Loluk also praised Maj Gen Don Nabasa, Commander of the 3 Infantry Division, for his distinctive approach to resolving insecurity in the region.
Lt Col Gaston Mugarura, Commanding Officer of the 45 Infantry Battalion in Kaabong, highlighted the successes of operation ‘Usalama Kwa Wote’, which began in 2021. The operation has led to the recovery of numerous firearms and ammunition through community engagement, along with cordon and search operations. Lt Col Mugarura emphasised that the UPDF values civilian cooperation and does not resort to torture for gathering information. “As UPDF, we respect and collaborate with the wanainchi, and that’s why we have managed to be successful in our operations,” he added.
Kaabong district Local Council V Chairman, Mr Meri Jino, thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his ongoing support of the region. He encouraged the local community to peacefully surrender their firearms and focus on transformative initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga.
Addressing the misconceptions of insecurity in Karamoja, Mr Jino urged people to visit and discover the region’s beauty, stating, “The place is very peaceful, and I urge all people to come and explore the beauty of Karamoja.”
The RDC was joined by representatives from various peace initiative groups and local leaders during the event.
