Security Forces Praised For Orderly Eviction of Nomadic Pastoralists

The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4 Infantry Division, Major General Felix Busizoori, has applauded security teams in the West Nile and Acholi sub-regions for their coordination, transparency, and professionalism in enforcing the Presidential directive on the eviction of nomadic pastoralists, commonly known as the Balaalo.

Speaking at a review meeting on Operation Harmony held at the 4 Division headquarters in Gulu, Maj Gen Busizoori, who also chairs the Regional Security Committee, reported that over the past month and six days, 19,826 head of cattle had voluntarily exited Northern Uganda through the Karuma Bridge exit point, while a further 5,390 had been returned to South Sudan.

He commended the involvement of cultural institutions in mobilising communities and supporting the operation. “The cooperation between cultural leaders and security teams has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and peaceful operation,” he said. “Let us continue working together to achieve the goals set out at the start.”

Maj Gen Busizoori also issued a strong warning to nomadic herders, particularly those referred to as Umbololo from Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan’s Kajo-Keji and Morobo Counties, who have illegally entered Uganda through districts including Koboko, Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Amuru.

Addressing rumours of security forces allegedly killing Balaalo cattle at holding centres, Maj Gen Busizoori dismissed the claims as false. He explained that any reported livestock deaths had resulted from the negligence of herders. He urged pastoralists to make use of the grace period and remove their animals voluntarily to avoid conflict.

He further praised operational coordinators, media teams, and district veterinary officers for maintaining transparency and providing accurate reports on animal health, which he said had helped dispel misinformation.

Maj Gen Busizoori called on the Ministries of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and Transport to support the ongoing operation by opening up access roads and improving infrastructure in affected areas.

Koboko Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Alex Mitala reiterated the importance of voluntary compliance with the directive. “This operation was carefully planned with clear roles for every stakeholder. No one is being forced out; everyone is being given a chance to leave voluntarily,” he said.

West Nile North Regional Police Commander, Senior Superintendent of Police Joseph Mwesige, criticised some politicians and legal actors for attempting to sabotage the operation by encouraging herders to disregard procedures. He warned that any criminal activity, including malicious damage to livestock, would be prosecuted.

Operation Harmony, launched in June 2025, is being implemented following a Presidential directive to evict illegal Balaalo herders from Northern Uganda.

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