After more than two decades of waiting, former rebel fighters in West Nile have reason to smile. President Yoweri Museveni has announced a Shs26 billion resettlement package for ex-combatants who once fought against the government. The money will help them start new lives and finally close a painful chapter in Uganda’s history.

The announcement came during Peace Day celebrations in Yumbe District, where thousands gathered under the theme “23 Years of Peace and Progress: Uniting West Nile for Socio-Economic Transformation.” The President explained that the payments will be made in three parts. An initial Shs1 billion will be released immediately, followed by Shs13 billion in the next financial year, and the remaining Shs12 billion the year after.

“Some people think we forgot about these fighters, but that’s not true,” Museveni said. “We just couldn’t do everything at once. There’s a time for everything, and now is their time.” Speaking partly in Luo, he added a local proverb: “One by one makes a bundle,” meaning that progress happens step by step.

The money will benefit former members of two rebel groups—the Uganda National Rescue Front I (UNRF I) and UNRF II—across 12 districts in West Nile. These include Arua, Koboko, Yumbe, Adjumani, and others. Many of these fighters laid down their weapons years ago after peace deals with the government but have waited long for support to rebuild their lives.

The story of West Nile’s ex-combatants goes back to the turbulent years after President Idi Amin was overthrown in 1979. Many soldiers from the region, loyal to Amin, later joined rebel groups like UNRF and the West Nile Bank Front (WNBF). They accused the government of marginalizing their people and sought revenge for violence suffered after Amin’s fall.

For years, their rebellions kept the region unstable. But by the late 1990s, most fighters had surrendered or been defeated. Since then, the government has worked to reintegrate them into society.

At the Yumbe event, former Inspector General of Police Gen. Edward Kale Kayihura reflected on this difficult journey. “Some thought peace was impossible, but today we enjoy the fruits of that struggle,” he said. “Sadly, some ex-combatants have passed on without seeing this day.”

While celebrating progress, officials also warned of remaining threats. Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, representing Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, said the army is ready to defend Uganda from external enemies. However, he raised concerns about local conflicts, particularly between communities in Adjumani and Amuru districts.

“These clashes are primitive and must stop,” he said, calling for urgent action. Defence Minister Jacob Markson Oboth-Oboth reminded ex-fighters that the money is a gesture of goodwill, not a right. “Use it wisely to develop yourselves and your communities,” he urged.

The Shs26 billion package is more than just money—it’s a key step toward healing old wounds. For years, former fighters have struggled with poverty and felt abandoned. This support could help them start businesses, buy land, or educate their children, reducing the risk of returning to violence. Minister of State for Defence Huda Abason Oleru, who pushed for the package, said the government remains committed to all ex-rebels. “We want lasting peace in West Nile,” she said.

With the first Shs1 billion soon to be released, authorities must ensure fair distribution. Past programs have faced complaints of delays and corruption. If handled well, this initiative could strengthen trust between West Nile and the central government. For now, former fighters and their families wait—hopeful that after 23 years of peace, better days are finally here. As President Museveni said, “Step by step, we are rebuilding Uganda together.” The world will be watching to see if this promise brings real change to a region that has waited far too long.