• By Andrew Ogwang

ADJUMANI, Uganda – August 20, 2025 – In a decisive move to enforce President Museveni’s Executive Order No. 2 of 2025, joint security forces in Adjumani District launched a targeted cattle eviction operation on the morning of August 19, 2025, in Mulokodi Village, Itirikwa Sub-County.

The operation, codenamed Operation Harmony, resulted in the impoundment of 206 cattle belonging to Balaalo herders, marking a significant step in addressing unregulated grazing in the North West Nile region.

The early morning operation, commencing at approximately 0500 hours, was spearheaded by the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the District Police Commander (DPC), and Major Ruretana. The forces focused on Mulokodi Village, where 106 cattle owned by Mr. Kayumba James, who migrated from Kyankwanzi, were seized. An additional 100 cattle, belonging to Ms. Kansime Nora, were confiscated from her kraal in Bayi Village, California Parish. All impounded livestock are currently secured in a holding kraal at the Mulokodi UPDF detachment, awaiting transportation arrangements by their owners.

SP Asea Collins, the Police Spokesperson for the North West Nile Region, confirmed that the operation was conducted peacefully and emphasized the ongoing commitment to enforcing the presidential directive. “The joint forces are ensuring the animals remain secure while the owners organize their retrieval,” SP Collins stated. He also noted that further operations are planned across other divisions in the region to ensure compliance with the eviction order.

President Museveni’s Executive Order No. 2, signed on June 1, 2025, bans free-range grazing in Uganda’s northern, north-western, and eastern regions, particularly in areas with communal landholding systems. The directive aims to curb crop destruction, land disputes, and food insecurity caused by unregulated livestock grazing. Operation Harmony, launched on June 25, 2025, has already seen the removal of over 19,826 cattle from northern Uganda, including significant numbers from districts like Gulu, Amuru, and Obongi, according to recent reports from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

Local communities have played a crucial role in supporting the operation by providing intelligence on Balaalo herders operating covertly. SP Collins expressed gratitude to residents for their cooperation and urged the Balaalo to comply fully with security personnel to ensure a peaceful eviction process. “We call on the Balaalo to cooperate and vacate the Madi sub-region with their animals as the deadline approaches,” he said.

The operation has not been without challenges. Reports indicate that some local leaders and landlords have been accused of shielding Balaalo herders through illegal land agreements, complicating enforcement efforts. Additionally, over 300 Balaalo herders have petitioned the High Court in Kampala, arguing that their constitutional land rights are being violated. Despite these hurdles, security forces remain steadfast in their mission to restore order and protect local livelihoods.

As Operation Harmony continues, the North West Nile region braces for further evictions. The police have pledged to provide regular updates on the operation’s progress, ensuring transparency and community engagement. The broader goal remains clear: to address the long-standing tensions between pastoralists and local farmers, fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable land use in northern Uganda.

For more information on the ongoing eviction efforts, contact the North West Nile Regional Police Office.