The joint security and stakeholders called for continued disarmament, demobilisation of persons and forge further ways for possible reintegration while harnessing resources in Karamoja and Sebei Sub regions.
The stakeholders including members of the respective District Security Committees of South Karamoja, Sebei Sub-region, Bulambuli District and commanders made this call at the Inter-District Security meeting at Pian Upe Game Reserve (Morukajore) in Nakapiripirit district.
The meeting was chaired by Ms. Bassie Ajilong Modesta, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Bukwo under the theme
“Exploiting the potential of our different communities during the DDR for socio-economic transformation”
The RDC thanked the President of Uganda and Commander in Chief of the Armed forces HE Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni and the government for their continual, tireless efforts in appropriating resources to Karamoja and Sebei Sub regions to empower and transform communities through designed programs.
“It’s our collective responsibility to follow up the disarmed people , empower and reintegrate them” she emphasized.
Col Allan Kyangungu, the 407 Brigade Commander of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) emphasized that with the presence of relative peace in the sub regions, the DDR process plays a crucial role in stabilizing post – conflict societies.
He highlighted that for societies to harness the diverse potential of various communities, socio-economic transformation can be achieved through inclusive participation, skills development and employment, social cohesion and trust building, leveraging cultural and social capital and community – driven development.
“By capitalizing on the potential within diverse communities, DDR processes can drive socio-economic transformation and create a foundation for lasting peace and development,” said Col Kyangungu.
The commandant ASTU, ACP Francis Chemusto urged the stakeholders to work collaboratively to sustain peace in order to foster transformation. He encouraged stakeholders to spread the gospel on dangers associated with environmental degradation, impact on abuse of illicit waragi, early marriages and cautioned against sale of government support (incentives)meant for vulnerable people.
Hon Lobot Joseph, Amudat district chairperson called for a holistic approach towards conservation efforts including establishment of community structures, sensitization and dialogue such that resources are not put to waste and lives lost.
The leaders urged the community prone to wild life conflict and disputes around protected areas (Mt Elgon conservation Area) to stay calm as the Ministry of Lands expedites the demarcation and marking process.
The stakeholders also agreed to have exchange programs for selected communities to appreciate humanity and embrace harmonious co-existence.
The meeting resolved to continue implementing and enforcing the Executive Order No 3 of May 23 in order to maintain security and relative peace.
Present were: SSP Madiri Ahmed RPC Mt Moroto region, Members of District Security Committees of South Karamoja and Sebei, District Chairpersons, Chief Administrative Officers and Mr. Okware Bosco,senior warden in charge of Pian – Upe game reverse among others.