Museveni orders Balaalo out of greater north

Amuru: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered the Balaalo (nomadic pastoralists) with non-fenced farmland in the Greater North to vacate the region within three weeks.

The Greater North sub-regions, which are being occupied by the Balaalo, include Lango, Acholi, and West Nile, according to a release from State House.

President Museveni issued the order on Friday while meeting communities of Okidi, Atiak sub-county in Amuru district. His visit is aimed at addressing the growing crisis of the settlement of Balaalo in the region.  

The President also ordered that the Balaalo who are occupying government land like in Lakang and Aswa ranch to vacate.

He further urged the people of Acholi to be careful while dealing with the Balaalo issue because it is sensitive and can cause problems.  

Kilak North Member of Parliament, Anthony Akol told the President that the Executive Order which he passed clearly addresses the issues affecting the people of Acholi as far as the Balaalo are concerned.  

The Amuru District LC5 Chairperson, Lakony said the matter should be dealt with the utmost attention it deserves.  

Leaders at the meeting included the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, the Minister of State for Northern Uganda, Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny, Members of Parliament, and cultural leaders, among others.