President Yoweri Museveni has pledged that the Acholi sub-region will receive special consideration under the government’s revamped cattle compensation program, aimed at redressing historical livestock losses suffered during decades of insurgency in Northern Uganda.
Addressing a large crowd at Opit Primary School playgrounds in Omoro Town Council, Omoro District, the President, who is also the NRM presidential candidate, outlined the government’s plan to roll out a fairer, more transparent compensation system across Acholi, Lango, and Teso sub-regions.
“When the Acholi delegation came forward, they highlighted that Acholi suffered the longest and most devastating impacts during the insurgencies. In addition to the standard five cows per household, we will address genuine claims of those who lost significantly,” Museveni said.
The government had already spent Shs. 159 billion compensating claimants in the three regions, but investigations revealed irregularities and mismanagement in the previous framework, leaving many homesteads excluded.
“I discovered theft and irregularities in the prior payment model. The majority of affected homesteads were left out. That is why we are harmonizing the program to ensure every eligible household receives at least five cows,” the President emphasized.
According to government statistics, 4,836 claimants in the Acholi sub-region have received compensation so far, including 583 households in Omoro District, who were allocated Shs. 5.6 billion.
At the rally, Museveni highlighted the NRM’s legacy of peace and stability as a foundation for Uganda’s progress. He emphasized investments in infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, water, and telecommunication, alongside social services like schools and hospitals.
“We have completed tarmac roads in three directions across Acholi, including Karuma–Pakwach, Karuma–Gulu–Nimule, and Olwiyo–Gulu–Kitgum–Musingo. Other key roads will also be constructed soon,” Museveni noted.
The President also reflected on Uganda’s oil discovery, attributing it to divine timing and NRM leadership, stating that production is expected to start next year.
Museveni urged Acholi residents to support NRM candidates to consolidate peace and ensure the continued implementation of development initiatives.
The new cattle compensation model represents a broader effort to restore wealth, promote social justice, and support livelihoods in regions historically affected by conflict.
