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By Aggrey Baba
A flat-rate cattle compensation plan for homes in northern Uganda, which were affected by cattle rustling and LRA war has been pledged by President YK Museveni, where each affected household would receive five cows.
Speaking in Alebtong and Otuke Districts on Thursday, Museveni said the proposal came after discussions with leaders from Lango, Teso, and Acholi sub-regions.
While many people in Teso and Lango have supported the plan, some leaders, especially from Acholi, are still unsure. Some see it as a helpful step, while others view it as a temporary fix for a larger, long-term problem.
Museveni framed the cattle compensation as a key way to restore wealth to northern Uganda, where livestock was once a vital part of many households’ livelihoods.
“Cattle rustling and war have stripped away the livelihood of these communities. Restoring this wealth is important,” Museveni said.
However, critics question whether five cows will be enough to make a significant impact or whether it is simply a campaigning bite ahead of the 2026 elections.
Although the plan has received support from some leaders and communities, the Acholi people are still waiting for more details. There are concerns that the proposal might not address the deeper issues affecting the region, such as poverty, poor healthcare, and lack of infrastructure.
Alongside the cattle compensation, Museveni also highlighted the country’s potential oil wealth. He promised that oil revenues, once production begins, will fund major infrastructure projects like roads, schools, and hospitals, making these future revenues to appear like a flood of resources that will help support Uganda’s development.
However, many people in the north are skeptical, fearing that while promises of oil wealth are on the horizon, the region continues to face economic challenges in the present. Without immediate investments in key sectors like education and healthcare, many wonder if cattle compensation is enough to lift them out of poverty.
The President emphasized the importance of peace, saying that maintaining stability is crucial for Uganda’s future. He promised that no one would be allowed to disrupt the peace in northern Uganda again.
Museveni also encouraged Northerners to take advantage of government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Youth Livelihood Fund, initiatives designed to help people grow businesses and improve their livelihoods. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
