New Leadership Vows to Consolidate Gains made in Karamoja, Greater Eastern Uganda

The 3rd Infantry Division welcomed Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma as the new commander in a function where he replaced Maj Gen Don Nabasa in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces. A ceremony was held in Karamoja and celebrated the successes of joint security forces that have brought back peace to the region and the surrounding areas of Greater Eastern Uganda.

Transition of Leadership

Maj Gen Nabasa, who was the division’s commander, has been moved to the post of Joint Staff Policy and Strategy. The function was presided over by Lt Gen Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Land Force, and also witnessed Col Allan Kyangungu, the former commander of the 407 Brigade, take over as Deputy Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division.

Lt Gen Muhanga hailed the cooperation between the security forces and the local leadership, and promised to nurture the working relationship for continued stability.

“We are a pro-people army, and our professionalism has been key to fostering trust and cooperation with the communities we serve,” he said.

Achievements in Karamoja

The Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Dr. Peter Lokeris, saluted clear guidance from President Museveni that has greatly aided efforts of security organs towards restoring peace in Karamoja, and hopes this would continue under the new leadership.

Karamoja Parliamentary Group, KPG led by Remigio Achia appreciated contributions of Maj. Gen Nabasa toward regional disarmament, saying he contributed significantly to regional efforts against criminality.

“We call upon the new leaders to ensure that disarmament is furthered, respond to emerging threats in time and also build relationships with the people,” Achia said.

Success of Disarmament

Maj Gen Nabasa reflected on his term of office and noted that Karamoja has attained 80% disarmament, attributing this to good collaboration between local leaders and security agencies.

“The momentum has to be sustained in this consolidation phase,” he said, thanking the President and the UPDF leadership for the trust placed in him for the role.  

Call for Socio-Economic Transformation  

Brig Gen Sserunkuma pledged to cement the strong foundation set by his predecessor. He also underscored the need to make the place conducive for socio-economic transformation of Karamoja and its environs.

“We will work day and night to ensure the progress made translates into lasting peace and prosperity for all communities in the region,” Brig Gen Sserunkuma said.

Col Kyangungu reiterated the same, adding that he would support any move towards stability and development.

Local Leaders and Stakeholders Voice Support

Local leaders from both Karamoja and Teso who attended the function, among them Nakapiripirit District Chairperson George Owanyi and Soroti City’s Peter Pex, expressed confidence in the new leadership.

Filex Lochale, LCV Chairperson for Karenga District, emphasized that collaboration by everyone is essential for continued development of the region.

“Collaboration between security forces, leaders, and the community is what will bring about lasting peace and stability in the region,” Lochale said.

Education as a Long-Term Solution
Members of Parliament called for free and compulsory boarding education to change attitudes so as to help the youth desist from crime.

“Education is the starting point for any meaningful transformation. We must nourish our young people for a sure peaceful and prosperous tomorrow,” said an MP.

Renewed Commitment to Peace and Stability

The handover ceremony was attended by various regional leaders, including MPs, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Local Council V (LCV) chairpersons, religious leaders, and civil society organizations (CSOs). Participants renewed their pledge to work together for the continued peace and stability of Karamoja and Greater Eastern Uganda.

The event concluded with the shared vision of consolidating the gains made so far and striving for a future of peace, development, and socio-economic transformation.