Nebbi Faces Challenge with 300+ Abandoned Cattle
Nebbi District is grappling with over 300 cattle abandoned by Balaalo herdsmen. The herders were supposed to comply with Executive Order Number 2, aimed at evicting them from the region. The eviction is part of a broader initiative in Northern Uganda.
Failure to Move Cattle
The district’s veterinary officer, Mr. William Abedkani, said the herdsmen haven’t moved their cattle from the government’s animal holding grounds at Agwok County headquarters. The failure to comply has overcrowded the holding grounds. Abedkani noted the herders were supposed to move their cattle in phase 2, while the land ownership verification would take place in phase 3.
The overcrowding at these facilities has become a serious issue for the district.
Holding Grounds Overcrowded
Mr. Robert Abak, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), oversees the implementation of the eviction order. He said the security team has set up two animal holding grounds: one at Agwok County headquarters with 178 cattle and another in Aluka village, Alala sub-county, with 132 cattle.
Abak mentioned that they plan to collect more cattle over the next two weeks using a village-to-village strategy. If the herders don’t comply, authorities will transport the animals under military escort to the Pakwach animal checkpoint.
Engagement with Local Leaders
The operation began with efforts to sensitize local leaders in the sub-counties where the Balaalo live. However, despite this, the herders have refused to comply. Some have even hidden within local communities.
“We are giving them time to comply. If they don’t, we will take further action,” Abak warned.
Balaalo Representative Requests Transport
Mr. Hero Muddenyi, a Balaalo representative, said they are ready to move the cattle but are waiting for transport logistics. Muddenyi stated that they need vehicles to move the animals to Meat Parkers in Kampala.
“We are ready to move, but we need the necessary logistics,” Muddenyi added.
Conclusion: Tensions Persist in Nebbi
Nebbi District faces ongoing tensions with Balaalo herders. The district administration continues to push for eviction, while the herders await transportation for their cattle. The situation remains unresolved, with both sides waiting for a resolution.
