The Karenga District Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ocailap Geoffrey Filbert has commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their pivotal role in restoring stability and peace to the Karamoja region.
Speaking at the district headquarters Ocailap on September 20, 2024, expressed optimism about the declining levels of insecurity in the Karamoja Region a development he said has led to food security in the region.
“With security guaranteed, the food problem will be history in Karamoja,” Ocailap noted.
He highlighted the impressive agricultural productivity in Karenga, citing the abundant production of maize, sorghum, and other crops.
Ocailap however emphasized that a key challenge in the region remains the disturbances caused by individuals from neighboring Kenya, who disrupt the tranquility of the Karamajong people in Uganda.
Chief Warden Richard Muhabwe of Kidepo Valley National Park also noted the surge in tourism owing to the region’s newfound stability.
He attributed this positive development to effective disarmament initiatives, revealing that the park now attracts around 10,000 visitors annually, both from Uganda and abroad.
Muhabwe underscored the park’s significant impact on the region, including the development of vital infrastructure such as schools and hospitals.
He encouraged people from Uganda, East Africa, and beyond to visit and appreciate the national heritage, highlighting Kidepo Valley’s distinction of hosting the largest herds of buffalo in the world.
The Chairperson of Karenga district Local Council V, Abukongimole Samuel Lobeka commended the government’s efforts in implementing poverty eradication programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, which have substantially improved the living standards of the people.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including the Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs, Carol, the Assistant Warden for Tourism, Okiring David, representatives from the Uganda Police, district local leaders, and the Karucunas community.