UPDF to erect new brigade headquarters in Kapelebyong

The Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) has committed to establishing a new military brigade headquarters in Kapelebyong district to curb the incursions of Karamojong cattle raiders into the Teso Sub-region.

The move is aimed at strengthening security and protecting the local communities from the persistent threat of armed cattle raids

The brigade headquarters will be constructed on 204 acres of land generously handed over by the community of Aturai village, Okoboi Parish, Kapelebyong district.

The land transfer ceremony which was held on July 26, 2024, with Major General Don Nabasa, Commander of the UPDF's 3rd Division, leading the army delegation saw several members of the community gather in Aturai village to honor the event.

"We are grateful to the community of Kapelebyong for their patriotism and support in enhancing the security," Major General Nabasa said.

"This new brigade headquarters will be instrumental in our efforts to safeguard the people of Teso from the continuous raids by Karamojong warriors." Nabasa added

Kapelebyong has long been plagued by attacks from Karamojong raiders, who often wield illegal firearms and target cattle in the district and neighboring areas. The establishment of the brigade headquarters is expected to significantly reduce these violent raids and enhance the safety and stability of the community.

In 2021, leaders from Teso had called on the government to endorse the recruitment of "arrow boys," vigilante youths trained and armed to protect residents from the Karamojong raiders. However, the government opted for a military deployment to address the unrest along the Teso-Karamoja borders instead.

George William Moka, a resident of Kapelebyong, shared his personal loss and the community's plight over the years.

"I have lost many friends who were killed while trying to protect their cattle during a raid," he said. Moka expressed hope that the new brigade headquarters would bring much-needed security to the area.

Francis Akorikin, the Chairman of Kapelebyong district urged the UPDF to commence construction of the brigade headquarters promptly.

"The community is ready to support the UPDF in any way we can, including helping to open up access roads," he said.