Security authorities in Nansana have issued a stern warning to traditional healers against engaging in illegal activities, some of which have reportedly resulted in loss of life.
The warning was issued during a meeting with members of the traditional healers’ association, Uganda Ne Dagala n’Obuwangwa Bwaffe, held in Nansana as practitioners elected new leaders to steer the association forward.
Nansana District Police Commander (DPC) Morice Nyonzima cautioned traditional healers to operate within the law or face arrest.
“We are concerned about the growing cases of lawlessness among some traditional healers, and in some instances, these actions have cost people their lives,” Nyonzima said. “Those found engaging in illegal practices will be dealt with accordingly.”
Led by their chairperson, Benya Mugerwa, the healers said the association has strengthened unity among practitioners and improved their livelihoods.
“This association has brought us together and enabled us to work as one, which has greatly improved our development,” Mugerwa said.
However, Mugerwa acknowledged that the profession continues to face challenges caused by unlawful practices carried out by some individuals, including child sacrifice.
“We must distance ourselves from acts that bring shame to our work, such as sacrificing children. These are criminal acts and have no place in our profession,” he emphasized.
He revealed that the association, working alongside security agencies, is preparing to launch an operation targeting traditional healers across Nansana in a bid to streamline and professionalize the sector.
“We are soon starting an operation to ensure all traditional healers in Nansana are registered and operating responsibly,” Mugerwa added.
DPC Nyonzima also warned against fraudsters posing as traditional healers and exploiting members of the public through false promises of wealth and prosperity.
“There are individuals among you who deceive people by claiming they can make them rich. This is fraud, and it must stop,” he said.
He encouraged practitioners to diversify their sources of income to avoid resorting to unlawful activities.
“Engage in other productive activities alongside your work. This will help you avoid the temptation of seeking money through illegal ways,” Nyonzima advised.
The police commander further stressed the importance of education and hygiene, urging healers to educate their children and maintain clean working environments.
“Take your children to school and ensure cleanliness in your workplaces to prevent the spread of diseases,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Officer in Charge of Yesu Police Post called for peaceful coexistence between traditional healers and surrounding communities.
“Respect your neighbors and maintain peace as you carry out your work. Everyone has a right to live in a peaceful environment,” he said.
Members of the association pledged to cooperate with security agencies in identifying and eliminating unlawful practices within the profession.
“We are cooperating with security to ensure that those who break the law are identified and removed from our profession,” one member said.
Authorities say the planned operation to register and regulate traditional healers in Nansana is expected to commence soon as efforts intensify to restore public trust and ensure compliance with the law.
