Senior security officials and community leaders from Uganda and Kenya have pledged to strengthen peaceful coexistence and shared natural resource management during a cross-border dialogue in Kaalae Village, Kotido District.
The meeting, which brought together leaders from Nakapelimoru in Uganda and Nakitongo in Turkana County, Kenya, focused on fostering community-led initiatives to address climate challenges and conflict while promoting regional cooperation.
Kotido Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Charles Ichogor urged communities to embrace unity under the East African Community (EAC) framework. “I call upon you, as the Ateker community, to live harmoniously and continue enjoying the peace and cooperation fostered by the EAC,” he said. “Let’s work together for the prosperity and development of both Uganda and Kenya.”
While acknowledging recent stability, Ichogor stressed the need for joint security efforts to prevent cross-border crime and discourage armed herders from entering Uganda.
Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the UPDF 3 Infantry Division, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustained peace through disarmament operations under Executive Order No. 3. “Peaceful co-existence should not be seasonal, but sustainable—built on the foundation of East African brotherhood,” he said.
He assured Turkana pastoralists of access to Ugandan grazing land but emphasised compliance with laws and hygiene standards to avoid conflict.
ACP Francis Chemusto, Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), warned against cattle raids, illegal firearms, and neglecting education in favour of herding.
Turkana County Assembly Member Francis Namuya highlighted the importance of shared resources. “Our people need water and pasture. We must remain united for business to thrive and peace to prevail,” he said.
Kotido District Chairperson Paul Lotee, popularly known as ‘Kacheri Boy’, pledged support for disarmament and government-led development programmes.
The dialogue, attended by civil society groups and local residents, marked another step in reinforcing ties between the Ateker communities across both borders.
