Katakwi RDC Calls for Stronger Action Against Cattle Raids, Warns Against Collaborators
By Skika Reporter.
The Resident District Commissioner of Katakwi, Stephen Ilemukorit Okure, has urged newly elected local leaders to intensify efforts against cattle theft, warning that continued collaboration between residents and suspected rustlers is worsening insecurity in the district.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of district councilors and LCIII chairpersons, Ilemukorit said cattle raids attributed to suspected Karimojong rustlers remain a persistent threat, with communities losing livestock on a monthly basis.
He revealed that Katakwi District records losses of between seven and ten cattle every month, particularly in Ngariam, Okore, Palam, Guyaguya, and parts of Magoro sub-counties, which he described as the most affected areas.
The RDC emphasized the need for coordinated action between political leaders, security agencies, and communities to dismantle what he termed networks enabling cattle theft.
He said security committees at district level regularly meet to identify individuals suspected of collaborating with cattle raiders and support ongoing operations aimed at curbing livestock theft.
Ilemukorit urged the new leadership to remain vigilant and actively support intelligence-led efforts to restore peace in affected communities.
Beyond security concerns, the RDC encouraged leaders to focus on implementing government development programmes aimed at improving household incomes and reducing dependency on handouts. He advised residents to embrace sustainable economic activities, including commercial tree planting such as eucalyptus farming, as an alternative source of income.
Newly elected Katakwi District Speaker Betty Abur Okumu pledged that the district council would prioritize the fight against cattle rustling, noting that livestock theft continues to cause significant economic loss and insecurity among residents.
She said the council would engage security agencies for regular briefings on livestock recovery efforts and progress in combating cattle theft.
Katakwi LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo also echoed concerns over insecurity, saying the new leadership would prioritize both service delivery and security during the current term.
Omolo acknowledged improvements in key sectors such as education, health, and water supply in the previous administration but stressed the need for greater accountability and stronger action against corruption to sustain development gains.
He called for closer cooperation among district leaders, technical staff, and councillors to ensure effective service delivery and improved livelihoods for residents.
The renewed focus on cattle theft comes as authorities continue efforts to address long-standing insecurity linked to livestock raids in eastern Uganda, where communities rely heavily on cattle as a key economic asset.
