By Nathan Eyagu 

Kotido — Reformed Karamoja Warriors (Karachuna), security agencies, religious leaders, elders, and government officials today convened for a peace and security mobilisation meeting in Natedektoi Cell, Losilang Ward, North Division, Kotido Municipality, with a renewed call for lasting peace and development in the Karamoja sub-region.

The meeting, which focused on security, peacebuilding, and development, brought together Karachuna (reformed Karamoja warriors comprising both youth and adults), community members, and key stakeholders. It began with a Catholic mass, followed by a memorial service in honour of the late Francis Lokwii, an influential young leader and member of the Karachuna Peace Movement Committee, who passed away in December 2024 under circumstances suspected to involve foul play.

The preacher of the day, Father Lobere Francis of Losilang Catholic Parish, described the late Lokwii as a champion of peace who worked tirelessly to reconcile individuals previously involved in cattle raids. In his sermon, Father Lobere urged the congregation to make responsible life choices, do good deeds, and work for peace so that they too may be remembered positively. He also called on the congregation to pray for the soul of the late Lokwii and for the government to continue strengthening security across Karamoja.

The Kotido area has historically faced cattle raiding challenges, especially along neighbouring districts of Kabong and Abim, and in border areas involving the Jie and Dodoth communities. However, leaders noted that the situation has recently improved due to intensified security operations.

Angolere Carolyne, the Special Presidential Assistant (SPA)/ political affairs, said the meeting was demanded by the Karachuna themselves as a platform to directly engage security agencies and raise concerns. She thanked the Jie community for honouring commitments made after meeting President Yoweri Museveni, noting that improved security is now visible on the ground.

She urged residents to remain peaceful, protect their property, and cooperate with security by exposing individuals involved in livestock theft. On infrastructure, Angolere revealed that the Kotido–Agago–Kitgum road, a key trade and security route, is earmarked for rehabilitation to enhance movement and economic activity. She also noted growth in Karachuna SACCOs, with membership increasing from about 50 to over 100 in several groups.

Several Karachuna members spoke emotionally, urging their peers to embrace peace and development-oriented meetings instead of violence. One speaker emphasized the importance of educating children as a long-term solution to poverty and a pathway to improved livelihoods.

Kotido District Karachuna Chairperson, Namai Peter Ebokot, warned that insecurity often rises during festive seasons when criminal elements exploit communities. He stressed that peace is critical, adding that not all Karachuna should be judged by the actions of a few criminals.

From Lakanai Sub-county, Lokiru acknowledged continued cattle raiding involving some Jie elements targeting Turkana communities but admitted that peace meetings are yielding positive change. He appealed to his tribesmates to desist from raiding and embrace peace.

Other speakers cautioned communities against electing politicians who incite violence for personal gain, blaming some political actors for fueling insecurity.

Elders praised the government and President Museveni for restoring peace, while urging communities to work closely with security personnel. They also requested government support in the form of agricultural inputs to improve livelihoods.

Lt. Col. Gaston Magarura, a UPDF brigade commander, commended leaders and Karachuna for their role in restoring peace, describing Kotido District as largely peaceful, save for a few isolated cases involving illegal firearms. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and urged communities to report suspects.

He revealed that many individuals have voluntarily handed over guns under the ongoing amnesty, with security forces focusing on stubborn offenders involved in serious crimes. Lt. Col. Magarura warned against politicians who manipulate youth into violence, noting that such individuals do not deserve public leadership. He also dismissed claims of planned violence during polling periods, assuring residents of full security.

He encouraged communities to abandon criminal activities and instead benefit from government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), adding that efforts are underway to improve access to clean water for both people and livestock.

SP Musa Kayongo, in charge of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Karamoja, observed that the region has changed significantly, with peaceful community meetings replacing violent confrontations due to improved cooperation between leaders and residents. He urged communities to take advantage of the ongoing amnesty.

Kotido Resident District Commissioner Charles Echogor called on residents to continue supporting President Museveni, crediting his leadership for improved security in the region. He urged the community to report criminals, livestock theft, and illegal firearms, pledging continued collaboration between authorities and residents.

The RDC also encouraged Karachuna to form sub-county SACCOs to access training and government funding, noting that increased accountability would attract more resources. He further assured residents that allegations of politicians possessing illegal guns would be thoroughly investigated.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment by community members, leaders, and security agencies to sustain peace, strengthen cooperation, and focus on development as the foundation for lasting stability in Karamoja.