Senior commanders from Uganda’s joint security forces and district leaders have reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining peace and driving development in the Teso Sub-region. The commitment was made during a regional security and stakeholders’ meeting held at Teso College Aloet in Soroti City.
The meeting brought together leaders from Kumi, Bukedea, Amuria, Katakwi, Kapelabyong and Soroti City, alongside top security commanders, to review the current security landscape and identify strategies to maintain long-term stability.
Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division, emphasised Teso’s strategic value and its contribution in overcoming past insurgencies. He called on both leaders and security personnel to consolidate existing peace efforts and support government initiatives.
“I urge you to reflect on our responsibilities, consolidate security gains, and preserve peace to enable development in Teso,” Brig Gen Sserunkuma stated. “As commanders, we must intensify our efforts, because any failure to implement government programs becomes a security failure.”
He acknowledged the improved security in the region, attributing it in part to the 1 Usalama Brigade’s deployment in Serere and neighbouring districts, where it has disrupted criminal groups like the “Owokwok.” He urged communities to stay alert and continue engaging with security agencies through grassroots initiatives such as community barazas to help deter crime.
Mr .Chemutai James Small, Acting Soroti Resident City Commissioner, reported that the city remains stable, with only isolated incidents. He welcomed the meeting as a timely and strategic forum for aligning security operations with upcoming political processes.
He commended the 3 Infantry Division and the broader security apparatus for their inclusive approach and readiness, which, he said, promotes cohesion and stability as the region heads into election season.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Francis Chemusto, Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), noted that the ongoing Usalama Kwa Wote Operation has led to the recovery of illegal firearms, ammunition, and stolen livestock. He added that the enforcement of Executive Order No. 3 of May 23, along with waragi seizures and checkpoint operations, has contributed to restored calm in Karamoja and adjacent areas.
ACP Saiga Ibrahim, East Kyoga Regional Police Commander, highlighted the importance of intelligence-led operations in combating urban crime. He thanked the police leadership for logistical support and confirmed the pending deployment of command vehicles to strengthen the sub-county policing model.
Chief Magistrate Bakanansa Hilda offered judicial guidance on efficient justice delivery, while Nyanzi Gladys Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions/Regional Officer -Soroti region stressed the need for well-coordinated, evidence-driven investigations to ensure strong prosecutions.
The meeting concluded with several resolutions aimed at deepening regional security, improving public service delivery, and advancing socio-economic development.
Also present were Resident District Commissioners and LC5 Chairpersons from Kumi, Bukedea, Katakwi, Amuria and Kapelabyong; Col Allan Kyangungu, Deputy Division Commander; Col Juddy Rukubya, Commander of 1 Usalama Brigade; ACP Ronald Kalali, Regional Prisons Commander for Mid-Eastern; Deputy Mayor Ipagi Juliet , Kapelabyong CAO Oroma Rhoda , and other judicial and security officials.