Senior security commanders and local government leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining peace and accelerating development in Uganda’s Teso Sub-region. The pledge was made during a high-level regional security and stakeholders’ meeting held at Teso College Aloet in Soroti City.
The forum brought together leaders from Kumi, Bukedea, Amuria, Katakwi, Kapelabyong, and Soroti City, alongside top commanders from Uganda’s joint security forces. Discussions focused on strengthening regional security and aligning efforts to support socio-economic growth.
Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Commander of the UPDF 3rd Infantry Division, highlighted Teso’s strategic importance and urged leaders to consolidate the peace gains made over the years.
“As commanders and leaders, we must intensify efforts to maintain stability. Any failure to implement government programs amounts to a security failure,” he said.
He praised the deployment of the 1 Usalama Brigade in Serere and neighboring districts, which has disrupted criminal groups such as the Owokwok. He also called for continued community engagement through grassroots forums like barazas to enhance vigilance and information-sharing.
Chemutai James Small, Acting Soroti Resident City Commissioner, reported that the city remains largely peaceful, and welcomed the meeting as timely, especially with upcoming political activities. He lauded the UPDF and other forces for fostering cohesion.
ACP Francis Chemusto, Commandant of the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), said that the Usalama Kwa Wote operation has recovered illegal firearms, ammunition, and livestock, contributing to calm in Karamoja and surrounding districts. He also cited the successful enforcement of Executive Order No. 3 of May 23, as well as waragi seizures and intensified checkpoint operations.
Ibrahim Saiga, East Kyoga Regional Police Commander, underscored the role of intelligence-led policing in curbing urban crime. He announced the upcoming deployment of command vehicles to strengthen sub-county policing.
The judiciary was also represented. Chief Magistrate Bakanansa Hilda urged for efficient justice delivery, while Nyanzi Gladys, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions for Soroti region, called for coordinated and evidence-based investigations to ensure successful prosecutions.
The meeting concluded with key resolutions focused on enhancing regional security, improving public service delivery, and fostering socio-economic transformation.
Attendees included Resident District Commissioners, LC5 Chairpersons, Col. Allan Kyangungu (Deputy Division Commander), Col. Juddy Rukubya (Commander, 1 Usalama Brigade), ACP Ronald Kalali (Regional Prisons Commander), Deputy Mayor Ipagi Juliet, Kapelabyong CAO Oroma Rhoda, and other security and judicial officials.
