Wolves Kill Over 100 PDM Sheep in Katakwi
The coursing predators struck in Alukucok, Ogongora, and Asutuni villages in Alukucok Parish, leaving behind the blood-sucked carcasses of the animals.
Beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in Akoboi Sub County, Katakwi District, are facing significant setbacks after wolves killed 114 sheep and goats in a series of attacks over the past two weeks.
The coursing predators struck in Alukucok, Ogongora, and Asutuni villages in Alukucok Parish, leaving behind the blood-sucked carcasses of the animals.
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Katakwi, Savior Vincent Okwii, confirmed that the recent wave of attacks resulted in the loss of 55 PDM-funded sheep and goats.
This follows a similar incident in November 2023, where wolves killed 59 sheep and goats in Abela Parish.
The recurring nature of these attacks has raised concerns about the impact on the PDM program, designed to support rural communities through sustainable development.
Okwii highlighted the threat these attacks pose to the local economy and the program's goals, especially as Katakwi District has received Shs 5 billion for the initiative, with 109 out of the 131 parishes benefiting.
The deputy RDC also expressed concern over the 22 parishes that have not yet received their share of the PDM funding. Affected farmers are now anxiously awaiting compensation.
Betty Akiteng, a farmer from Abela Parish, fears the loss of her livestock may hinder her ability to repay the PDM loan.
“I don’t know how I will repay my loan now that my animals are gone,” she said.
Dr Anthony Odeke, acting District Veterinary Officer, confirmed that a formal report on the attacks has been submitted to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for further action.
He said there was a need for a swift response to prevent further losses.
Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, who was in Katakwi commissioning Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) projects, promised to raise the matter with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.
He stressed the urgency of compensating the affected farmers.
Katakwi District, situated near the Kidepo and Pian-Upe game reserves, continues to experience human-wildlife conflict, highlighting the need for long-term strategies to address these recurring issues and protect the livelihoods of local farmers.
