TESO CATTLE REHABILITATION CONSULTATIONS CONCLUDE WITH STRONG SUPPORT

By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer Soroti

The Teso Cattle Rehabilitation Committee has successfully concluded its consultation exercise across the region, wrapping up the process with a final meeting on Sunday 13^th September, 2025 at Eneku Village in Soroti City.

The meeting drew participants from various walks of life, including cattle claimants who had previously dragged the government to court over compensation.

The consultations, spearheaded by Vice President Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo, were aimed at gathering views on President Yoweri Museveni’s proposal to rehabilitate households in Teso with between two and five cows each. According to Alupo, the exercise achieved its objective and was met with overwhelming endorsement.

“Our responsibility stemmed from a directive of His Excellency the President to consult the people of Teso on his proposal to restore dignity to families that lost their livestock during past raids and conflicts,” Alupo told participants in Soroti.

 “We are glad to report that the exercise has been very successful, harmonious, and received a 100 percent response from all groups invited.”

The wide-ranging consultations involved religious and cultural leaders, women and youth groups, entrepreneurs, veterans, security personnel, and petitioners. In all the meetings, stakeholders welcomed the proposal, noting that cattle are not only a cultural symbol in Teso but also a key driver of household livelihoods.

Alupo emphasized that even groups that had taken the government to court over cattle claims have now rallied behind the rehabilitation plan. “The endorsement we have received, including from those who had previously sued the government, is a sign of unity of purpose. It shows that the people of Teso are ready to move forward together,” she said.

The Vice President further revealed that the committee is in the final stages of compiling its report, which will be presented to President Museveni at State House, Entebbe, this week. The report will detail the views collected during the consultations and provide a roadmap for implementing the rehabilitation program.

Stakeholders who participated in the consultations expressed optimism that the initiative would help restore the cattle economy, which was devastated by years of insurgency and cattle rustling. Many also noted that restoring livestock would improve food security, support education through the sale of animals, and strengthen the cultural fabric of the Iteso people.

Alupo concluded by calling on leaders at all levels to help spread the message of the program and manage community expectations. “This proposal has been wholeheartedly welcomed by the people of Teso. It is now our collective responsibility to ensure that every household understands and supports the initiative,” she said.

The consultations mark a significant step in the government’s efforts to address long-standing grievances in the Teso sub-region, where cattle once formed the backbone of the local economy and culture.

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