By Our Reporter 

SOROTI - Vice President Rtd. Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo Epel has officially constituted a high-level committee tasked with spearheading consultations and oversight of the cattle restocking agenda in the Teso sub-region. This development follows a directive by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, issued during a regional conference held at Soroti University on August 15, 2025, in response to growing dissatisfaction over the cattle compensation process.

The newly formed committee, unveiled during a ceremony in Eneku Village, Soroti City, is mandated to consult widely with various stakeholders across the Teso sub-region and recommend an inclusive and sustainable approach to livestock restocking. The committee’s objective is to address the longstanding grievances of communities that suffered cattle losses during past insurgencies and ensure that the government’s compensation and restocking efforts reach all affected households.

In her remarks, Vice President Alupo emphasized that the committee will act as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring that voices from the grassroots are heard and considered. She affirmed the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government's commitment to equity and transparency in all its programs, particularly those aimed at post-conflict recovery and economic empowerment.

The committee comprises representatives from various sectors, including local government leaders, Members of Parliament from the Teso region, cultural and religious leaders, civil servants, and representatives from the Attorney General’s office. Notably, Bishop Emeritus Dr. Charles Bernard Ebitu will represent religious institutions, while cultural leaders from across the region are expected to provide community guidance and mobilization.

Among the appointed members are Chairpersons of District Local Governments in Teso, Stephen Ocola, and Stephen Ilemukorit representing the Resident District Commissioners (RDCs). Diso Katakwi, a coordinator of the program, and NRM Teso Mobilizer Teddy Acam are also part of the committee, along with Dr. Kenneth Ongalo Obote, Minister for Teso Affairs.

Vice President Alupo noted that the committee would embark on a series of marathon meetings and consultations with various groups, including boda-boda riders, leaders from the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), representatives of the Won-Ateker cultural structure, district councilors, and LCIII officials. The engagement will also include direct interaction with petitioners who have formally raised concerns about previous compensation processes.

Addressing the media shortly after the committee's inauguration, Alupo called for unity among the people of Teso and urged all stakeholders to support the consultation process without sabotage. She highlighted the importance of open dialogue and collective participation in ensuring that the region benefits from government development programs.

“This committee is not only about cattle; it is about restoring dignity, strengthening livelihoods, and building trust between the government and its people. The process must be transparent, participatory, and driven by community input,” Alupo said.

She added that the consultations will inform a comprehensive framework for restocking that ensures no home is left behind. The Vice President reiterated the government’s broader goal of wealth and employment creation, stressing that the livestock restocking program is just one of several initiatives aimed at lifting communities out of poverty.

The committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations in due course, paving the way for a renewed and fair implementation of the Teso livestock restocking initiative.