OPERATION HARMONY: UPDF Grants Grace Period for Produce Harvest in Aswa Ranch

The Commander of the 5 Infantry Division, Major General Keith Katungi, has recommended that individuals who have cultivated crops within Aswa Ranch be given a grace period to harvest their produce. He emphasised that the specific timeline for harvesting will be agreed upon in consultation with local leaders to ensure the process is inclusive, orderly, and considerate of community needs.

Referring to Executive Order No. 2, Maj Gen Katungi reiterated that the directive targets the eviction of nomadic pastoralists from the Acholi and Lango sub-regions. While implementation had been delayed due to a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, he noted that the government has since rolled out comprehensive veterinary interventions.

These efforts have created a safe and lawful environment for the resumption of enforcement activities in line with the Executive Order.

At the same engagement, the Deputy Prime Minister of Ker Kwaro Acholi, Mr. Okumu Martin urged local leaders to raise awareness about the importance of transitioning from nomadic pastoralism to sustainable agriculture and afforestation.

Mr. Okumu noted that phasing out nomadism presents a strategic opportunity for the region to embrace responsible land use, adopt climate-resilient practices, and lay a foundation for long-term economic stability.