President Museveni has pledged to resolve the ongoing conflict between residents of Nakapiripirit District and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) following allegations of harassment, torture, and displacement by wildlife officials.
While addressing supporters during his campaign rally in Nakapiripirit on Wednesday, the President responded to complaints from residents who accused UWA officials attached to the Pian Upe Game Reserve of abusing their authority and mistreating locals.
In recent weeks, UWA personnel have faced accusations of burning houses, arresting residents, and forcefully evicting people from areas near the game reserve, sparking anger and tension in the community.
During the meeting, attended by Minister of State for Gender, Labour & Social Development Esther Anyakun Davinia, and NRM flag bearer for Chekwii County Simon Peter Longoli, several residents expressed frustration over what they described as inhumane treatment and property destruction by UWA officers.
“The feud between the residents and UWA has reached a boiling point. People have been displaced and their property destroyed,” said Isaac Lokol, a resident of Loregae Village.
In response, President Museveni assured the people that he would personally return to the sub-region to meet with elders and other stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
“I will come back to Karamoja and meet with the elders to discuss this issue properly so that we can find a peaceful way forward,” Museveni said.
The President’s remarks come amid growing tension between UWA and communities living near protected areas in Karamoja, where wildlife conservation efforts have occasionally clashed with local livelihoods such as grazing and cultivation.