In a transformative lecture delivered by Lt Col Emmy Katabazi, Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organization (ISO), leaders from the Karamoja region were called upon to prioritize peace, development, and pan-Africanism for the betterment of their communities.
The lecture took place on October 10, 2023, at the Oliver Reginald Tambo School of Leadership and Pan-African Centre of Excellence in Nakaseke District, where Karamoja leaders are undergoing a specialized 3-week course on transformative leadership.
During his lecture, Lt Col Katabazi explored the current situation analysis of the Karamoja region, identifying the factors contributing to insecurity not only in Karamoja but also in neighboring districts. He also highlighted the crucial role played by the Internal Security Organization (ISO) and local leaders in maintaining peace and security in the region which include disarmament operations and implementing social economic programs.
Emphasizing the importance of monitoring government programs aimed at social-economic transformation, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and NAADS/OWC, Lt Col Katabazi urged Karamoja leaders, who included councillors, mayors, and district chairmen, to remain vigilant and report any observed anomalies to higher authorities.
The Deputy Director General stressed the significance of collaboration between local leaders and various security personnel, such as the police, RDCs, DISOs, and GISOs. He encouraged the leaders to work hand-in-hand, providing timely and accurate information regarding criminal activities to ensure the safety of the communities they serve.
Furthermore, Lt Col Katabazi called on Karamoja leaders to champion the ideology and values of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), including patriotism, pan-Africanism, social-economic prosperity, security and stability, development, and regional integration.
Lt Col Katabazi emphasized the duty and mutual interest of the local leaders and citizens in promoting good governance and security, particularly with Uganda’s pro-people security agencies. He urged them to refrain from perceiving Karamoja as a solitary issue but rather recognize it as an integral part of Uganda, with its challenges affecting the nation as a whole.
Over the years, the Karamoja region has faced persistent insecurity marked by conflicts, robberies and attacks, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, land
disputes, environmental degradation, and child trafficking and other illicit activities. It is hoped that the message delivered by Lt Col Katabazi will resonate with Karamoja’s leaders and citizens, facilitating a collective effort toward peace, development, and the realization of a prosperous and integrated Uganda.
