By Bazio Doreen

Adjumani District Leadership is strengthening its response to rabies following the death of 10 people between January and August 2026, as health and veterinary authorities push for stronger prevention, surveillance and access to treatment.

The figures were presented during an Adjumani District Task Force meeting held on Thursday 24th September 2026 at the Office of the Resident District Commissioner.

The meeting was attended by district local government officials, Ministry of Health representatives, veterinary authorities and other key stakeholders to review the district’s animal-bite situation and agree on measures to prevent further deaths.

According to data presented at the meeting, 655 animal-bite cases were recorded in Adjumani between January and August, with children aged five to 11 years accounting for about 80 percent of the victims.

District records further show 453 reported dog-bite cases and 213 rabies cases, with 10 deaths recorded during the period.

The situation places Adjumani’s response within Uganda’s wider effort to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. The National Rabies Elimination Strategy identifies mass vaccination of dogs, timely and affordable post-exposure prophylaxis, stronger surveillance, control of dog populations and improved laboratory systems as key interventions.

Globally, rabies causes an estimated 59,000 deaths each year, with more than 95 percent occurring in Africa and Asia. Children under 15 are among the most vulnerable because of their close interaction with dogs. Uganda’s national strategy notes that approximately 99 percent of human rabies cases originate from rabid dog bites, making vaccination of dogs a critical prevention measure.

Closing the vaccination gap.

Adjumani has an estimated 45,272 dogs, of which 31,696 have been vaccinated, representing about 70 percent coverage. Approximately 13,576 dogs remain unvaccinated.

District veterinary authorities want coverage increased to at least 80 percent, alongside stronger control of stray and free-roaming dogs.

Dr Okello, the District Veterinary Officer, reported that the district had received 3,000 doses of dog vaccine, while private providers had vaccinated approximately 900 dogs.

He said food insecurity can contribute to dogs roaming in search of food, increasing their contact with communities.

“How do you feed a dog when you don’t have enough yourself? The dogs roam to find what to eat.”
He added that rabies, once largely associated with wildlife, is increasingly a concern among domestic dogs.

Children at particular risk.

The high proportion of children among animal-bite victims was one of the major concerns raised during the meeting.

Dr Kalanda Rogers, a Ministry of Health Field Epidemiologist, said children aged five to 11 accounted for approximately 80 percent of animal-bite victims recorded during the eight-month period.

Many victims sought care at Adjumani Hospital and Elema Health Centre II, but officials noted that some bites are never reported.

Some victims delay seeking care until wounds have healed, while others underestimate the risk because the injury appears minor. Bites involving stray dogs are also less likely to be reported where there is no identifiable owner.

Beyond the bite: risks from other animals.

Dr Ijjo Didimous, Veterinary Officer for Dzaipi Sub-county, cautioned that rabies surveillance should not focus exclusively on dogs. He said infection can also affect goats, sheep and cattle, raising concern about communities consuming animals that die unexpectedly.

He urged communities to report unusual animal behaviour and unexplained animal deaths to veterinary authorities rather than consuming the meat.

The district is consequently looking to strengthen surveillance of both domestic and wild animals as part of a broader One Health response.

Task Force agrees on coordinated action.

The District Task Force agreed that closing the vaccination gap and improving early detection must be accompanied by stronger community systems. The district will therefore prioritise raising dog vaccination coverage to at least 80 percent, while strengthening reporting and tracking of animal bites through health facilities, veterinary teams and community leadership. LC1 leaders will be engaged more closely in identifying and reporting bite incidents and stray animals, while schools will become an important platform for prevention, with head teachers across Adjumani’s 213 schools targeted for sensitisation because of the high proportion of children among victims.

The meeting also prioritised improving access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and following up victims to ensure they complete their treatment. The Ministry of Health has provided 1,200 doses of anti-rabies vaccine, according to Lulu Henry Leku, Assistant District Health Officer for Maternal and Child Health. However, stakeholders noted that access remains a challenge, with private facilities charging about Shs30,000 for vaccination. Communities will also be sensitised on immediate first aid following a bite and the need to seek medical attention without delay. The district further identified inadequate information, education and communication materials and limited resources for active case searches as gaps that need to be addressed.

The resolutions are consistent with Uganda’s national rabies strategy, which calls for mass dog vaccination, community awareness, timely access to PEP, strengthened surveillance and response, dog-population control and improved laboratory systems as part of the country’s goal of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030.

A district-wide public health responsibility.

The meeting underscored that rabies prevention cannot be left to the veterinary or health departments alone. The district’s response will require coordinated action involving health workers, veterinary officers, schools, local leaders, dog owners and communities.

For Adjumani, the immediate challenge is to translate the Task Force resolutions into sustained action—particularly closing the gap of more than 13,500 unvaccinated dogs, improving reporting of bites and ensuring that victims can access PEP quickly.

With 10 people already dead between January and August 2026, the district is treating rabies not simply as an animal-health problem, but as a preventable public-health threat requiring coordinated action across the community.

END

By Dramadri Federick.

For two years, I have periodically trekked along the banks of River Enyau on foot to monitor human activities, document environmental abuses, and study why the degradation of this vital waterway receives so little meaningful intervention from the source to Albert Nile where it pours its waters.

Running 75 kilometers through Uganda’s West Nile region before feeding into the Albert Nile and then White Nile, River Enyau is the sole operational lifeline for over 140,000 connected residents on the National Water supply system and an essential ecological buffer. Yet today, this critical tributary is collapsing. Driven by unregulated pollution, unchecked agricultural encroachment, human settlements, systemic enforcement failures, and millions of dollars in unaccounted conservation funds, the Enyau is undergoing a slow ecological death exposing a glaring gap between Uganda’s ambitious environmental laws and its reality on the ground.

For generations, communities along the banks of River Enyau valued it as far more than a simple water source. Rooted in deep customary traditions, the river was a collectively protected natural asset, governed by indigenous practices that strictly discouraged the destruction of wetlands and riverbanks. Families relied on its waters for drinking, agriculture, fishing, and livestock, while traditional norms ensured the ecosystem’s preservation long before formal state conservation mechanisms emerged.

Martha Tiko Ondoga Zamvadeni, Minister for Natural Resources and Environment at Lugbara Kari, the supreme cultural institution of the Lugbara people underscores this historical stewardship.

“The Lugbara culture, through its norms, prohibited settlement or encroachment into protected areas such as rivers, forests, and hills considered sacred. These sites were believed to ‘host gods’ and ancestors, and the prohibition was intended to safeguard the flora and fauna within. The people ensured these areas were highly respected and not tampered with.” Tiko explained.

Originating from the Ezuku Forest Reserve in Vurra Sub-county, River Enyau meanders through Arua City and the districts of Maracha, Terego, and Yumbe before joining the Albert Nile system in Madi Okollo District, where it empties into the White Nile. For decades, it has sustained hundreds of thousands of households across Uganda’s West Nile sub-region and served as the primary raw water source for the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).

State Neglect and Unregulated Abuse.

Near the Enyau Bridge, adjacent to NWSC’s regional offices in Arua, an informal car washing enterprise operates directly on the riverbank. Here, approximately 20 young men organized under the Enyau Car Washers Association (ECWA), wash vehicles directly in the riverbed. Their clients include drivers of commercial trucks, cesspool emptiers, fuel tankers, and vehicles owned by prominent individuals, private corporations, local governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and law enforcement entities including the Uganda Police Force. Plastic waste from the nearby Ediofe Trading Centre further compounds the contamination.

Francis Alionzi, the Chairperon of the Car Washers Association, notes that while members are willing to cease washing vehicles in the river, they lack the capital to build an off-stream facility.

“We charge between UGX 1,000 and above, depending on the vehicle size. Though we were asked to relocate away from the river with promises of new car wash jets, water tanks, and a complete alternative facility by NEMA [National Environment Management Authority] and other partners, no action has been taken. If these promises were fulfilled, we would be willing to leave.”

This dilemma illustrates the acute tension between environmental protection and local economic survival.

River Enyau is the operational backbone for NWSC in West Nile, serving as the source for more than 140,000 connected residents across Arua City, Arua District, and Terego District.

Jessica Ondoru, NWSC Area Manager for Arua, explains that upstream human activities directly impair water treatment and distribution, driving up treatment costs and forcing emergency interventions:

“The river is the main source of water that supplies Arua City, Arua, and Terego districts. During the dry season, when water levels decrease, we rely on boreholes. The dry season from January to June this year was the worst. It hit us badly and we were rationing water. Many of our clients resorted to alternative sources by drilling their own boreholes affecting our client base.”

Vincent Odata, the Water Quality Control Officer at NWSC’s regional station treatment plant added that unchecked bank disturbance of the river causes extreme soil erosion, elevating raw water turbidity up to 1,100 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU), a level that severely strains chemical treatment budgets and mechanical filtration systems.

“Since the buffers have been tampered with, the soil along River Enyau is loose and often causes flooding that submerges our machines, forcing us to shut down operations. On average, we abstract 5,000 cubic meters [5,000,000 liters] daily and supply 4,500 cubic meters. The water we draw from the river is generally muddy, full of fragments that are dangerous to human health and needs serious treatment.”

The Multi-Million Dollar Funding Gap

Multiple multi-billion-shilling conservation initiatives have been launched to restore the River Enyau catchment. In 2022, the Ministry of Water and Environment launched the Integrated Water Management and Development Project, a five-year programme worth UGX 70 billion (approx. USD 18.7 million), with World Bank support. The following year, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) allocated USD 38,000 to re-demarcate portions of the river’s buffer zone. Later in July 2025, NWSC partnered with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to initiate a UGX 38 billion Water Source Protection Project targeting nearly 20 kilometers of catchment supplying Arua City, Terego, and Yumbe districts.

Despite these significant investments, degradation continues. A 2022 technical assessment by Segamu 14 Consults Limited, commissioned by the Ministry of Water and Environment, revealed that over 50 hectares of wetlands within the River Enyau catchment had been degraded by human activity.

Local residents report worsening climate vulnerability and infrastructure destruction.

Rita Aketonga, a resident near Ediofe Trading Centre has periodically faced the impacts of flooding waters of river Enyau.

“After floods submerged my house halfway, deep cracks formed in the walls. We received no support from either government or NGO and now entrust our fate to God because this house may one day collapse on us.”

Francis Embati, living within the statutory river buffer zone in Arua city, admits that encroachment worsens flood impacts but cites land scarcity.

“Floods continue destroying our crops and homes, but without alternative land offered by government, we have nowhere else to go.”

Joseph Drileba, another local resident who resisted eviction argued that he has a land title given to him by Arua city land board in the buffer zone of the river. “If the government wants to evict people from the riverbanks, they must compensate families so they can acquire land and rebuild livelihoods.”

According to the Rural Initiative for Community Empowerment (RICE West Nile), working with over 300 households, farming in wetlands and direct vehicle washing are primary pollution drivers.

Meanwhile, the Uganda Red Cross Society reported that recent flooding along River Enyau affected approximately 200 households, washing away acres of crops, killing livestock and damaging structural properties. The organization warns that over 150 homesteads,approximately 1,200 people, mostly women and childrenremain in dire need of emergency humanitarian relief.

Opaque Fundraising and Governance Concerns

In November 2024, the Ministry of Water and Environment via NWSC’s Lira Sub-Regional Office, organized the “Save River Enyau Run” under the theme “Public Participation Coordination for Effective Conservation.” Over 10,000 participants paid a registration fee of 30,000 Shillings each, raising an estimated 307.5 million Shillingsapprox. USD 82,000. The run was repeated in 2025.

However, no public financial report or expenditure audit was published following the events. Out of the promised interventions, only nine public dustbins were placed at city headquarters, and those subsequently vanished mysteriously.

When contacted, Deneth Mugarura, the coordinator for the Save River Enyau Marathon at the Ministry’s Lira sub-regional office, stated that “The funds we mobilized were basically used to offset public address systems and other things we hired. We also used the event basically to create awareness on the need to conserve the river.”

Local environmental activists and officials express deep skepticism regarding the management of these public funds.

Richard Andama Ferua, environmental activist who took part in the first run said the activity has no relevance to the ecosystem conservation and preservation.

“Many participants paid money, yet organizers have not transparently declared collection totals or expenditures now for more than a year. If monies were for restoring the river, we would expect immediate steps like demarcating riverbanks, tree planting, or evicting encroachers, but nothing of that sort is happening.”

Meanwhile Alfred Okuonzi, former Arua District Chairperson urges proactive measures to rescue the dying river.

“The river is drying up. While projects and funding announcements abound, local communities see little tangible restoration. What is truly happening? Government rarely resorts to public fundraising, this is raising serious accountability concerns.”

Richard Matua, Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Water and Environment expresses lack of knowledge at the Ministry about the Marathon.

“I’m not aware of any Ministry project involving such a run. Our projects in the river supported by partners, do not include this event.”

David Kyasanku, Arua City Town Clerk, confirmed that event funds were handled by NWSC’s Lira office but declined official recorded comment.

Mary Dawaru, Senior Environment Officer for Ayivu Division in Arua City reveled that “Local governments are engaged mainly during launch ceremonies. Implementation is handled by NGOs and partners coordinating with the Ministry, with minimal feedback to us.”

Julius Mukunda, Executive Director of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG) warned that “Public fundraising without robust accountability invites misuse and erodes trust in conservation.”

Institutional Failure and Legal Impunity

Uganda possesses comprehensive statutory environmental law governing the management and conservation of ecosystems including the National Environment Act (2019) under its section 55 prohibits activities leading to wetland degradation and prescribes punitive fines and imprisonment terms for offenders. Another punitive legislation under Land Act (Cap 227) Invalidates land titles issued over wetlands post-1998, while Section 54(2) expressly forbids the government from granting titles over protected natural resources.

Despite these legal provisions, enforcement mechanisms remain severely constrained.

A report by the Auditor General on Climate Change and Natural Resource Management revealed that while national wetland coverage officially expanded from 8.9% to 13.9%, approximately 6.3% of national land and wetland areas remain degraded due to illegal conversion. Furthermore, due to budgetary constraints, only 18% constituting 739.34 sq km of a targeted 4,050 sq km of wetland boundaries have been demarcated nationwide due to budgetary constraints. Of 319 formal restoration and eviction orders issued nationally, only 46% have been executed.

Mary Dawaru attributes local enforcement failure in Ayivu Division to severe understaffing, systemic budget deficits, and corruption in land title issuance over buffer zones, and poor community compliance.

“We issued 120 eviction notices along River Enyau buffers in 2024 but couldn’t enforce them. Without Ministry support, enforcement and coordination falter. We need enhanced budgetary allocations for vigorous enforcement.”

Nationwide, Uganda maintains 8,614 gazetted wetlands covering 37,346 square kilometers across 146 districts and 11 cities. To police this vast landscape, the country deploys just 45 Environmental Police Force officers and one environmental court situated in Kampala.

Human Cost and the Path to Restoration

Faced with official inaction, some local communities are taking initiative. At the river’s source in Ezuku Parish, Arua District, residents supported by the Ezuku Church of Uganda have begun planting native trees along buffer lines backed by the Bishop of Madi West Nile Diocese Rt. Rev. Charles Collins Andaku in his tree planting Campaign while utilizing adjacent land for short-term crops.

The degradation of River Enyau highlights the fundamental challenge of balancing ecosystem conservation, community livelihoods, and institutional accountability across Uganda’s protected zones.

Uganda joined the ongoing United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), launched on World Environment Day (5 June 2021), aiming to build global political momentum to restore damaged ecosystems in alignment with the Rio Conventions and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) for which Uganda has committed.

For policy decision-makers and international environmental partners, preserving River Enyau requires more than issuing funding commitments. It demands transparent financial management, targeted support for community livelihoods, strict legal enforcement, and active local governance. Only by confronting these intertwined challenges can this vital Nile tributary avoid complete ecological collapse.

END.

By Dramadri Federick

For poultry farmers in Uganda’s West Nile sub-region, the journey from a day-old chick to a mature bird ready for the market is increasingly becoming a carefully managed business rather than a traditional backyard activity.

From the moment chicks arrive at a farm, farmers focus on providing warmth, clean water, quality feed, vaccination and proper housing to ensure the birds survive the vulnerable early stages.

As the chicks grow, farmers gradually adjust their feeding programmes, strengthen disease control measures and monitor their growth until the birds reach market weight or, in the case of layers, begin producing eggs.

At maturity, the birds are sold to local consumers, traders, restaurants and buyers from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

Agnes Ajidiru who used to earn from Tobacco growing in Arua district has shifted to Poultry farming due to tedious work, heavy investment or resources and poor earning outcomes. She says she is now earning a lot of money from chicken production after every three months since she raises them for other people to complete the production circle.

“I have realized that I wasted a lot of time in producing tobacco and now government is discouraging tobacco production, the earnings are little and soils have lost fertility. Ever since I got the knowledge of chicken raising from the commercial agents, I have fully ventured into the enterprise, increasing my quarterly earnings to at least 4 million from every batch of chicken I sell out”

For farmers facing increasingly unpredictable weather, this relatively short production cycle is providing an alternative source of income at a time when dependence on seasonal crop farming has become increasingly risky.

Across West Nile, prolonged dry spells, erratic rainfall and occasional floods have affected crop production, leaving many households searching for enterprises that can generate income even when agricultural seasons fail.

Commercial poultry farming is emerging as one such option.

From day-old chicks to the market

Unlike traditional free-range poultry keeping, commercial production requires farmers to manage the birds throughout their growth cycle.

For Farmers like Ajidiru, the process begins with sourcing quality day-old chicks, followed by brooding, feeding, vaccination and disease prevention.

During the early weeks, she said farmers must provide adequate warmth and protection because young chicks are particularly vulnerable to cold, infections and poor feeding.

As the birds mature, farmers move them into appropriate housing and continue providing balanced feed and clean water while monitoring their growth.

“I am cognizant of the fact that startup is usually expensive due to limited experience but chicken rearing only needs sufficient time and follow-up of the biosecurity measures” She noted

For broilers, the objective is to reach market weight as quickly as possible. Layers, on the other hand, are maintained for egg production and can provide farmers with a more regular income stream.

Joel Okuva, another farmer in Arua City, says the relatively short production cycle is one of the reasons he has shifted more attention to poultry.

“I have been farming crops but this time round I turned to poultry. For me, I raise them for one month and sell all of them. It is the quickest way of earning,” Okuva says.

For Okuva and other farmers, poultry provides an important financial buffer when prolonged sunshine or erratic rainfall affects crop yields.

“The sunshine stayed for a long time … but at the end we got very little. Using proceeds from poultry, one can still buy food from others and survive, unlike a neighbour who will have nothing to feed on that season because of crop failure,” he explains.

The poultry enterprise therefore does not necessarily replace crop farming. Instead, the two activities can complement each other.

Poultry and crops supporting each other

Farmers can grow crops that provide some of the raw materials used in poultry feed, while poultry manure can be returned to the gardens to improve soil fertility.

This creates a circular farming system in which crop and livestock enterprises support one another.

Dr. Nguma Willy, the Arua District Production Officer, describes poultry as a relatively quick-return enterprise that can complement crop production.

“Poultry production is one of the easiest, climate-resilient, quick-return enterprises because the poultry feed on anything,” Nguma says.

However, commercial poultry production requires more than simply keeping birds.

Farmers must manage feed costs, disease outbreaks, housing, vaccination, mortality and markets if the enterprise is to remain profitable.

This is where commercial poultry agents are increasingly becoming important.

Commercial agents take poultry production beyond the farm

Commercial agents such as Crown Ventures Poultry Farm are working with farmers not only to supply birds but also to provide technical support throughout the production cycle.

Alice Oriba, Director of Crown Ventures Poultry Farm in Yabiavoko Ward on the outskirts of Arua City, says the company supports farmers with knowledge on proper feeding, disease prevention, poultry housing, farm management and market access.

The support is particularly important because climate change is creating conditions that can increase risks to poultry production.

Extreme heat can stress birds, while cold weather can weaken their immunity. Changes in environmental conditions can also create favourable conditions for some pests and disease-causing organisms.

Poor biosecurity can allow diseases such as Newcastle disease to spread rapidly through farms and villages, potentially wiping out entire flocks.

Commercial agents therefore train farmers on measures such as proper housing, sanitation, isolation of sick birds, vaccination and appropriate use of veterinary medicines.

Routine vaccination is particularly important.

Farmers also need professional guidance on drug administration because incorrect dosages can either fail to protect birds or create other risks.

Oriba says the company’s role goes beyond supplying farmers with chicks.

“We only have 1,500 birds in this compartment where we raise chicken for the farmers out of the 10,000 birds, and we have a target of selling 40,000 birds this year alone. The market is abundant,” Oriba explains.

The model creates a link between commercial producers and smaller farmers, allowing farmers who may not have the capacity to establish large hatcheries or breeding operations to participate in the poultry value chain.

Uganda’s poultry population remains largely indigenous

Despite the growing commercial market, Uganda’s poultry sector remains dominated by indigenous birds.

Data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries indicates that Uganda has an estimated 57.8 million chickens, with more than 87 percent being indigenous breeds.

In many rural households, poultry keeping remains small-scale, with families commonly keeping between 6 and 22 birds.

These birds are often maintained primarily for household consumption, cultural functions and emergency income rather than as a fully commercial enterprise.

The shift towards improved breeds and better production practices therefore presents an opportunity to increase productivity without necessarily requiring farmers to abandon their other agricultural activities.

Veterinary and production officers are encouraging farmers to adopt improved breeds suited to commercial production while maintaining proper disease-control measures.

Climate change is changing the economics of farming

For decades, crop farming has been one of the main livelihood activities for households across West Nile.

But prolonged dry spells and unpredictable rainfall are making the timing and reliability of agricultural production increasingly uncertain.

Moses Akuma Odims the Executive Director West Nile Development Association WENDA says “farmers can invest in seed, labour and inputs only to lose much of the expected harvest because rainfall stops prematurely. Poultry can eliminate climate-related risks, as its shorter production cycle provides greater flexibility”.

“A farmer can raise broilers for several weeks, sell them and reinvest the proceeds instead of waiting for a single annual crop harvest.” Akuma Added

Income from poultry can also be used to purchase food when household gardens have failed.

This makes poultry particularly important for households seeking to diversify their sources of income.

A market stretching beyond West Nile Region

The economic opportunity is not limited to local consumers.

West Nile’s strategic location near the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan provides access to cross-border markets for live birds and poultry products.

At Ariwara Market in Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, traders confirmed that chicken that may sell for approximately25,000 shillings to 35,000 shillings in West Nile markets can reportedly fetch between 65,000 shillings and 70,000 shillingsin some DRC markets.

In South Sudan’s Equatoria region, similar birds can reportedly fetch between 70,000 shillings and 80,000shillings, depending on size and market conditions.

The price differences demonstrate the potential value that could be retained within West Nile if local farmers increase production and meet regional demand.

Matua Job Richard, the Assistant Resident City Commissioner for Arua Central Division in charge of socio-economic transformation, says the region has a significant untapped market.

“There’s abundant market. Just in DR Congo here, each cock of over 2kgs goes up to 70,000 shillings, and yet we import a lot of eggs from Kampala, Hoima, Masaka and even live chicken from Lango, Acholi and parts of the Eastern sub-regions,” Matua says.

He argues that farmers should diversify their enterprises as climate conditions make dependence on crop production increasingly difficult.

“Our people must embrace these alternative enterprises that are climate resilient because the weather is no longer favouring crop production,” he adds.

West Nile loses billions importing poultry

The irony is that while West Nile has access to lucrative regional markets, the region still imports significant quantities of poultry and poultry products from other parts of Uganda.

According to the Arua City Chamber of Commerce, West Nile loses more than 15 billion shillings annually importing poultry and poultry products from outside the region.

Anguzu Silas the Chairman Chamber of Commerce and Industries Arua city Branch says “Majority Eggs and live birds are brought into the region from areas including Kampala, Hoima, Masaka, Lango, Acholi and parts of Eastern Uganda. This is costing more than 15.5billion shillings and yet the regional economy remains poor, we must invest in poultry production”

Anguzu further stretches that the figures represent both a challenge and an economic opportunity saying if local farmers can increase production, improve quality and establish reliable supply systems, more of the money currently leaving the region could circulate within West Nile.

The opportunity becomes even greater during festive seasons, when demand for chicken and eggs rises sharply.

A poultry project turning eggs into income

At Obutava Church of Uganda in Maracha District, poultry farming is demonstrating how organised production can transform a small enterprise into a source of regular income.

The Obutava Community Development Poultry Farm currently manages about 1,000 birds.

The project collects between 18 and 22 trays of eggs every day, generating at least 200,000 shillings in daily sales from eggs. At that rate, the project has the potential to generate approximately73 million shillings annually in egg sales, depending on production levels, prices and market conditions. Production records show significant growth.

In February, the project produced 191 trays of eggs. Production increased to 496 trays in March and 606 trays in April. It later declined to 470 trays in May before rising again to 617 trays in the subsequent production cycle.

The figures demonstrate the potential for organized poultry enterprises to generate regular cash flow when birds are properly managed and markets are available.

Primo Adomati, Chairperson of the farm, says the growth in poultry production has improved household incomes for participating members, with earnings from the enterprise increasingly competing with or surpassing income previously generated from crop farming.

The project also illustrates the role religious institutions, community groups, women and youth organisations can play in expanding commercial poultry production across the region.

Poultry can create jobs beyond the farm

The poultry value chain extends far beyond the farmer who keeps the birds.

It involves hatcheries, chick suppliers, feed dealers, veterinary service providers, commercial agents, transporters, egg traders, live-bird traders, restaurants and consumers.

As production increases, opportunities also emerge for young people to work in poultry housing, feeding, vaccination support, egg collection, transportation, marketing and processing.

This makes poultry relevant not only as a household livelihood but also as a potential source of employment.

Commercial agents are the epicenter towards strengthening this value chain by connecting farmers to technical knowledge and markets while helping producers understand what consumers are demanding.

Pariyo Demos Akamba the Executive Director of Celavie Livestock Farm noted that they proved farmers with chicks, extension services and ensure timely vaccination of the keep the poultry productively.

“We have provided a platform for free farmer trainings on disease control, housing establishment and we cost share with farmers on feeds as we also provide market linkages for the poultry and poultry products. This keeps the cycle moving”

The production gap remains a major challenge

Despite the market opportunities, West Nile region has not yet produced enough poultry to satisfy local and regional demand.

Much of the region’s poultry production remains small-scale, with farmers keeping indigenous birds under free-range systems.

Such birds are generally slower-growing and produce fewer eggs than improved commercial breeds.

Disease outbreaks, high feed costs, limited access to veterinary services and inadequate housing also constrain commercial production yet climate change adds another layer of risk characterized by high temperatures can cause heat stress, reduce feed intake and affect productivity, while prolonged wet or cold conditions can increase disease risks.

Data from Arua district Production Department indicates that out of 2,642 beneficiaries of the Parish Development Module PDM funding, 30% of the enterprises ventured into poultry production accounting for 792 people. “These people are now doing well in terms of their earnings compared to other enterprises like cassava and simsim” Nguma stated

This means that simply increasing the number of birds will not be enough.

Farmers need knowledge, improved breeds, quality feeds, reliable veterinary services, proper housing, finance and dependable markets.

From backyard birds to a regional enterprise

The story of poultry in West Nile is therefore no longer simply about keeping chickens around the homestead.

It is increasingly about transforming poultry into a commercial enterprise, one that begins with quality day-old chicks, continues through proper feeding, vaccination and disease prevention, and ends with birds or eggs reaching consumers in local and regional markets.

For farmers such as Joel Okuva, the attraction is the speed at which poultry can generate income.

For commercial agents such as Alice Oriba, the opportunity lies in connecting farmers with production knowledge and expanding the supply of birds.

For community enterprises such as Obutava Community Development Poultry Farm, the value is in turning organised production into sustained income.

And for a region that loses more than 15 billion shillings annually importing poultry and poultry products, the opportunity is to produce more of what its own consumers and neighbouring markets are already demanding.

As climate change continues to undermine the predictability of traditional crop farming, commercial poultry is emerging as more than an alternative livelihood.

It is becoming a potential climate-resilient pathway for food security, household income, employment and economic transformation in West Nile.

END.

By Anzoo Evaline

Adjumani District Local Government has raised concern over the increasing number of new HIV infections among women and young people despite a reduction in the overall number of new cases registered in the district.

The concern was raised during a stakeholders’ engagement on HIV/AIDS where district leaders, health workers, and representatives of people living with HIV reviewed the district’s HIV situation and discussed strategies to end new infections.

According to the District HIV/AIDS Focal Person, Inyani Dolorence, the district has made progress in reducing new HIV infections compared to previous years, but the latest figures still present a worrying trend, especially among women and young people.

“We used to have more than 400 new HIV infections, but currently we have 225. And Adjumani Town Council is number one with 67 new cases. The detailed analysis of the 225 shows that 30% of these 225 are people between the age of 15 to 29 years. And it is very bad that 65% of the total 225 new infections is occurring among the female gender.

147 out of 225. Very bad picture. And this means that we need to really prioritize the female gender in terms of prevention,” said Inyani.

The figures indicate that out of the 225 newly registered HIV infections, more than half are women and girls, while nearly a third are young people aged between 15 and 29 years. Stakeholders noted that these statistics require urgent interventions targeting the most affected groups.

The Chairperson of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Adjumani District, Opi Leonard, called for greater efforts in tracking clients who discontinue treatment and disappear from health facilities after testing positive.

“Let us walk up about tracking of our lost clients. Last week we have discovered from in our facility one child has been born with HIV. This is a mother who was tested positive and put on ARVs and she disappeared. And went and conceived somewhere, came with a baby. No care, that lady is giving us a shame.

The cross-border issue, especially the refugee community. The moment they are tested, they disappear. They go to south Sudan, others go to Congo. Finding them is not easy, but these ones within we can make it. Let’s try and tell our relatives. The moment the person has been detected, we should help them,” Opi said.

He emphasized that communities have a role to play in ensuring that people diagnosed with HIV remain on treatment and receive the support they need to prevent further transmission of the virus.

Speaking during the discussion, Apio Ruth Sharon Baru expressed concern that many people no longer fear HIV infection as they did in the past, making prevention efforts more challenging.

“Currently, there’s nothing people fear about HIV that’s why you hear people saying girls/ women fear pregnancy more than HIV/AIDS. But why? To me, maybe it’s because the right information that they are supposed to be given has not yet sank into them so well. So, I think a lot has to be done in regards to engaging the communities,” she said.

Her remarks highlighted the need for continuous community sensitization and awareness campaigns, particularly among young people and women who continue to bear the greatest burden of new infections.

Adjumani Resident District Commissioner Toko Swaib urged stakeholders not to lose hope in the fight against HIV/AIDS, noting that sustained sensitization and collective responsibility remain key to ending the epidemic.

“Let’s not give up. We continue sensitizing our community and it is becoming difficult, actually the difficulty is going. We shall reach at a point when we want everybody to understand the message. I have like the theme you have written here ending HIV by 2030 is possible through collaborative responsibility. That means all the department must comply,” he said.

The RDC emphasized that the fight against HIV/AIDS should not be left to the health sector alone but should involve every department, institution, community leader, and household.

Stakeholders agreed that while the reduction from over 400 new infections to 225 represents significant progress, the high number of infections among women and youth remains a major challenge that requires targeted prevention measures, community engagement, and strengthened follow-up of people living with HIV.

As Adjumani District continues working towards the national goal of ending HIV/AIDS by 2030, leaders are calling for stronger collaboration among government departments, health facilities, community leaders, families, and development partners to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against the disease.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to strengthen HIV prevention, treatment, and community awareness programs, with particular focus on women and young people who account for the majority of new infections. Leaders stressed that ending HIV by 2030 remains achievable if every stakeholder takes responsibility and works together to protect communities from new infections.

END.

By Onzima Allan.

Adjumani District Ebola Task Force has suspended public gatherings as Ebola outbreak cases increase in Uganda and neighboring countries.

As Ebola cases rise in Uganda and the neighboring country DRC, boarder districts are tightening controls.

In Adjumani the District Task Force has ordered temporary suspension of all public gatherings. The move comes as Uganda records 19 confirmed cases and 2 deaths, while the DRC outbreak nears 500 cases.

Speaking during Ebola Task Force meeting on 8^th June 2026 at the Office of the Resident District Commissioner Adjumani, Olony Paul, the Surveillance Focal Person Adjumani urged, the task force to suspend weddings, funeral, and large religious events to cut transmission risk; an advice that was approved by the meeting.

Richard Atepo, the Senior Health Educator, urged leaders to sensitize the communities on the signs and symptoms and join efforts to call for vigilance.

Dr Lulu Henry Leku, the Assistant District Health Officer In charge of Maternal Child Health Adjumani, on his part said, Adjumani hosts a very large number of refugees for them to be ready, emergency tools and other supplies must be brought to Adjumani. He said the district needs PPE Isolation units, test kits.

Abina Polyene Irene, the Refugee Desk Office Adjumani, said this fight needs joint effort as Government, the community and partners must work together. He added that partners like Medical team Uganda (MTI). Will contributes highly when it comes to the response.

The message from Adjumani today is clear, Ebola thrives on silence and delay. With 19 confirmed cases in Uganda and the outbreak still active in DRC, boarder district cannot afford to wait.

END.

By Anzoo Evaline

Stakeholders in Adjumani District have cautioned residents to take deliberate action in restoring the environment through tree planting, warning that continued environmental degradation could worsen the effects of climate change and threaten livelihoods in the district.

The call was made during a tree planting and environmental restoration activity held at Elegu Central Primary School in Arinyapi Sub- County.

The event brought together district leaders, environmental activists, development partners, teachers, pupils, and community members under the theme, “Climate Action Begins with You, Act Now.”

Speaking during the event, the District Environment Officer, Amadra Sabino, emphasized that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a reality already being experienced by communities across the district and the country.

“We are saying climate change starts with you act now. The impacts of climate change that we see everyday, rain is coming a bit in excess. We also see if there is a dry spell, it moves for a longer time,” Amadra said.

He noted that changing weather patterns have become more evident in recent years, with prolonged droughts and excessive rainfall affecting agriculture, water resources, and the wellbeing of communities. He urged residents to become active participants in environmental conservation by planting and nurturing trees around homes, schools, institutions, and public spaces.

Environmental conservation advocates also highlighted the growing pressure on natural resources in Adjumani, particularly due to increasing population demands and dependence on forest resources for energy.

Amanzuru William Lesion, Team Leader of Friends of Zoka, said the environmental challenges facing Adjumani require urgent attention from all stakeholders.

“For you to understand the magnitude of environmental challenge in this district, you must put in mind how the district is hosting refugees plus other people who are in this district. But also, you need to look into how energy sector is being addressing the district. That gives you a better magnitude to understand what it means to talk about environmental abuse,” he said.

Lesion further expressed concern about increasing encroachment on protected areas, especially the Zoka Central Forest Reserve, which is internationally recognized for its unique biodiversity.

“But then also encroachment inside gazzeted areas like Zoka Central Forest Reserve that currently seems to be the bank gene for wild coffee across the country but also across the world. Apart from the wild coffee, it also has wild rice. It has flying squirrels, blesses for serene and all these. This magnificent future that has been gazzeted some years back is facing a lot of resistance from destructions,” Lesion added.

He stressed that protecting forests such as Zoka is critical not only for biodiversity conservation but also for maintaining ecological balance and safeguarding natural resources for future generations.

The Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Adjumani District, Wambi Richard, attributed much of the environmental destruction to human activities and irresponsible practices that have led to the loss of tree cover and environmental pollution.

“Because of the human character, human practices, we have destroyed the environment by cutting all the trees, throwing all the cover everywhere, the bottles, and we have affected the environment. And it is now us to get the effects of what we did to the environment. That’s why Adjumani and other places are very hot, and this is very unfortunate,” Wambi said.

He noted that communities are already experiencing the consequences of environmental degradation through rising temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions.

“So, we are here to demonstrate that we need to restore the environment. And this is the responsibility of everybody beginning with me and you,” he added.

Wambi urged residents not only to plant trees but also to ensure that the trees survive and grow to maturity.

“We want to request that everybody takes seat up on themselves to ensure that on any basis you grow a tree don’t just plant,” he said.

The Resident District Commissioner of Adjumani, Toko Swaib, encouraged residents to embrace fruit tree planting as a practical solution that can simultaneously address environmental, economic, and nutritional challenges.

“My advice to stakeholders and every other person around here is that as we are embarking on this tree planting, I want to encourage the population also to plant more of fruit trees because when we plant fruit trees, we are addressing three issues at a time go,” Toko said.

“When we are planting the fruit trees, we are addressing the issue of environment, we also addressing the issue of house or income as well as addressing also nutritional issues. So, I want to encourage the population to continue this exercise.”

The RDC further urged communities to reduce dependence on natural forests for survival and instead adopt sustainable alternatives that can help conserve remaining forest resources.

“And most importantly, let’s also encourage our communities from disease on the dependence of the natural trees of forest as life,” he added.

During the exercise, participants planted a number of tree seedlings within the school compound as a demonstration of the district’s commitment to environmental restoration. Teachers and pupils pledged to take responsibility for nurturing the trees to ensure they survive and contribute to improving the local environment.

Stakeholders emphasized that restoring degraded landscapes requires collective action from individuals, institutions, communities, and government agencies. They called on every resident of Adjumani to take personal responsibility for protecting the environment by planting trees, preventing deforestation, properly managing waste, and safeguarding protected forest reserves.

As climate-related challenges continue to affect communities, leaders believe that tree planting remains one of the most effective and affordable ways of restoring ecosystems, improving livelihoods, and securing a healthier environment for future generations.

Under the theme “Climate Action Begins with You, Act Now,” stakeholders said the time for action is now, urging every household to plant and grow trees as a lasting contribution toward environmental restoration in Adjumani District.

END.

By Onzima Allan

Adjumani, Uganda – The Madi Debaters Conference has intensified preparations for the 2026 National Debate Championship by convening a strategic planning meeting aimed at strengthening debate training in schools across the Madi sub-region.

The meeting, held on June 6, 2026, brought together primary and secondary school teachers, education stakeholders, and debate coordinators from across the district to discuss strategies for preparing students ahead of the national championship scheduled for July at St. Mary’s College Kitende.

Speaking during the meeting, Kandaruku Dominic, the Executive Director of the Madi Debaters Conference, emphasized the importance of introducing debate skills to learners early enough to enhance their competitiveness at the national level.

“We have come together with district leaders and education stakeholders to ensure that learners actively engage in debate. Debate is no longer merely an academic activity; it is a vital life skill that equips young people with critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities,” Dominic said.

The Lead Organizer for the Madi Sub-region, Owole Emmanuel Drani, called for greater support from schools, parents, and development partners to nurture young debaters. He noted that debate provides a platform for learners to discuss identity, culture, and community issues while developing confidence and civic awareness.

“We want to see more young people participate in debates that address issues affecting their communities. Such engagements help shape informed and responsible future leaders,” Drani said.

Participants at the meeting also highlighted the transformative impact of debate on learners. Gloria Munguci, a student debater, commended the organizers for expanding debate opportunities and encouraged more young people to join the activity.

“Debating has helped me build confidence, improve my public speaking skills, and express my ideas more effectively,” she said.

However, some stakeholders called for a more inclusive approach to debate development. Amale Sunday, a teacher, urged organizers to prioritize government-aided primary schools, arguing that many debate programs have largely benefited private institutions.

“There is a need to ensure that learners in government schools receive equal opportunities to participate and compete,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abbe Sandra, a matron at St. Peter’s Primary School, emphasized the need for training programs to include wardens and matrons who play a critical role in supporting learners during competitions and school activities.

The Madi Debaters Conference believes that the success of the July 2026 National Debate Championship will depend on strong collaboration among schools, teachers, parents, local leaders, and other stakeholders.

The National Debate Championship, one of Uganda’s premier platforms for student public speaking and critical thinking, is expected to attract participants from schools across the country, providing an opportunity for young debaters from the Madi sub-region to showcase their talents on the national stage.

END.

By Bazio Doreen,

Adjumani District Local Government has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation and climate resilience through the establishment of a 2.5-acre woodlot at Elegu Primary School in Arinyapi Sub-county as part of activities marking World Environment Day 2026.

The district-led initiative brought together political leaders, technical officers, development partners, teachers, learners, and community members in a tree-planting exercise aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and promoting sustainable environmental management.

Speaking during the event, the District Natural Resources Officer, Mr. Giyaya Charles, noted that environmental degradation remains one of the key challenges facing Adjumani District due to increasing demand for land, firewood, charcoal production, and settlement expansion.

He explained that the district has embarked on a campaign to plant approximately 2,000 trees in schools, institutions, and communities to support ecosystem restoration and strengthen climate resilience.

“Tree planting is one of the most practical interventions for addressing environmental degradation. Beyond restoring ecosystems, trees help improve soil fertility, protect water sources, sequester carbon, and support livelihoods,” Mr. Giyaya said.

According to Uganda’s forestry records, the country experienced a significant decline in forest cover from approximately 24 percent in 1990 to about 12 percent by 2017, largely due to deforestation and land-use change. While recent restoration efforts have contributed to gradual recovery in some areas, government agencies continue to emphasize the need for sustained conservation and reforestation programmes.

The Chairperson of Adjumani District Local Government, Hon. Anyanzo John Ambayo, said the district’s environmental restoration efforts directly support Uganda’s national climate change commitments and sustainable development priorities.

“Environmental protection is not only about conserving nature; it is also about protecting livelihoods, food security, and the future of our communities. Every tree planted today contributes to a healthier and more resilient Adjumani,” he said.

Hon. Ambayo further urged schools and communities to take ownership of the planted trees to ensure their survival and long-term environmental benefits.

The Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Toko Swaib, emphasized that climate change is increasingly affecting communities across Uganda through prolonged dry spells, erratic rainfall patterns, floods, and declining agricultural productivity.

“Climate change is no longer a future threat. It is already affecting our communities and livelihoods. We must all take responsibility by restoring our environment and adopting sustainable practices,” he said.

The district’s initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader climate action agenda under the National Climate Change Act, 2021, and the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which seek to strengthen climate resilience, increase forest cover, and promote sustainable natural resource management.

Nationally, Uganda has registered progress in ecosystem restoration. Recent government reports indicate that wetland coverage has recovered from 8.9 percent in the early 2020s to 13.9 percent by 2025 following targeted restoration interventions. Similar efforts are being implemented across the country to restore forests, wetlands, and other critical ecosystems.

This year’s World Environment Day was commemorated under Uganda’s national theme, “Climate Action Begins with You: Act Now,” which calls upon citizens, institutions, and communities to take practical steps toward addressing climate change and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

As Uganda prepares to host the National World Environment Day celebrations in Adjumani District in 2026, the district has positioned itself as a key contributor to national efforts aimed at restoring ecosystems, promoting climate action, and building a greener and more sustainable future.

END.

By Dramadri Federick

Arua City has been thrust into the center of a growing financial scandal after explosive allegations emerged of a coordinated scheme involving technocrats, contractors, and consultants accused of attempting to siphon hundreds of millions of shillings from the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development Additional Financing (USMID-AF) project.

The allegations surfaced during a heated council debate over a supplementary budget worth 2.023 billion shillings, part of which had been earmarked as outstanding contractual obligations to China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd (CRSG), the contractor behind the rehabilitation of Go-Down Road and related infrastructure works in the city.

At the center of the controversy is a disputed payment claim of more than 513 million shillings that some city officials allegedly sought to push through despite mounting evidence that the contractor was either overpaid or owed only a negligible amount.

The supplementary budget, sent by the Ministry of Finance under the World Bank-funded USMID-AF program, had initially proposed 513.5 million shillings as outstanding obligations to CRSG and 1.5 billion shillings for procurement of 192 solar street lights along key roads in Arua City.

But what appeared on paper as a routine budget approval quickly turned into a bombshell corruption exposé.

According to documents tabled before council, Arua City implemented the USMID-AF project from the 2019/2020 financial year until December 2023, with an extension to June 2024. The original contract awarded to China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd was worth 13.5 billion shillings for 12 months, but was later extended by three months, increasing the contract value to 14.03 billion shillings. However, the contractor, consultant, and Accounting Officer reportedly presented a higher contract figure of 15.43 billion shillings, which differed from the signed agreement. Additionally, a final payment claim of 1.596 billion shillings submitted by the consultant was said to lack support from the original contract documents, raising concerns over possible inflated claims and financial irregularities.

This discrepancy reportedly triggered suspicion among some council members and technical officers, who began reviewing payment records and audit reports.

Council records showed that CRSG had already received payments totaling 13.446 billion shillings through advance payments, interim certificates, retention fees, and payments for street lights. By official calculations, the contractor’s outstanding balance should have been approximately 583 million shillings.

The Paper Trail.

The 2025 Auditor General Value for Money report discovered that 63.7 million shillings had allegedly been paid for installation of 12 solar street lights on Afra Road that were never installed. The amount was flagged for recovery but accounting officers didn’t take any action. Another 78.3 million shilling was recommended for recovery by the Office of the Auditor General following findings of overpayments on Go-Down Road.

The scandal widened further when auditors reportedly uncovered illegal 20 percent deductions imposed by the contractor on subcontractors handling water and electricity works. The deductions, amounting to over 110 million shillings, were classified as unlawful recoverable funds.

More evidence unveiled on March 15, 2023 when Archways Holdings Limited that was subcontracted by China Railway Seventh Group Company Limited (CRSG) to relocate utilities wrote a complaint letter to the project manager CRSG about a 20% illegal deduction of their pay totaling to 74,046,777 Shillings and threatened legal action against the contractor.

Shs1.242 billion embezzled in Ghost Camp site

Documents indicated that the contractor had previously been paid 2.8 billion Shillings under School Road Construction project to establish a camp site and quarry. Council, consultants, and the contractor had reportedly agreed that the same facility would be reused for the Go-Down Road project at no extra cost. The site was previously used as a play field for Arua Prison Primary School but cannot be used for any purpose due to the damages caused. CRSG is

Despite this agreement, the contractor allegedly claimed and received an additional 1.242 billion Shillings for establishing a “new” camp site for Go-Down Road. Another 100 million Shillings was allegedly paid for reinstating the same camp site work that investigators say was never completed.

Officials who opposed the payments claim their objections were ignored by the Accounting Officer despite written warnings from the Contract Manager.

Link to the Graph of Contractors demands for the 513million shillings

Questionable Payments Made to the Contractor.

A review of financial transactions, payments made by Arua City Council to China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd under the USMID-AF project shows that the contractor received a cumulative total of 13,446,020,680 Shillings through advance payments, interim payment certificates, retention release, and payments for solar street lights.

The first payment of 2.701 billion Shillings was made on 22nd January 2022 as advance payment, accounting for approximately 20 percent of the total payments made. This advance was intended to facilitate mobilization of equipment, personnel, and commencement of works on the Go-Down Road rehabilitation project.

Subsequent payments were processed through six Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), which together amounted to 9.358 billion Shillings. The largest single IPC payment was Interim Payment Certificate No. 5 worth 2.502 billion Shillings paid on 19th June 2023, while the smallest was IPC No. 2 worth 535.8 million Shillings paid on 10th June 2022.

On 11th July 2023, the contractor received 1.513 billion Shillings under Interim Payment Certificate No. 6 and an additional 322.6 million Shillings as retention payment on a single day, no explanation was given by the town clerk regarding the payments.

The contractor also received 1.083 billion Shillings specifically for installation of 321 solar street lights. However, subsequent inspections and audit findings revealed that some street lights, including 12 units on Afra Road worth 63.7 million Shillings, were allegedly never installed despite payment being made.

Financial analysis further indicates that the total amount paid represented about 95.8 percent of the revised contract sum of 14.029 billion Shillings. This left an expected contractual balance of approximately 583.5 million Shillings before deductions and recoveries identified by auditors and technical officers.

However, later reviews by the Office of the Auditor General and city technical staff raised concerns over unsupported claims, overpayments, duplicate camp site charges, illegal deductions imposed on subcontractors, and payments for unexecuted works.

After accounting for all recoveries and deductions amounting to approximately 1.595 billion Shillings, technical analysis reportedly concluded that the contractor’s actual payable balance reduced drastically to only 1.5 million Shillings instead of the claimed 513.5 million Shillings.

The payment trends therefore raise significant concerns regarding contract management, certification of works, accountability controls, and possible financial irregularities in the implementation of the USMID-AF project in Arua City.

The revelations sparked fears of an organized scheme to divert public funds through manipulated contractual claims.

According to the motion presented before council, by the secretary for Finance Planning and Administration Moses Adriko, some technocrats allegedly attempted to use forged documents and questionable reconciliations to justify payments that lacked contractual backing.

“I saw some reports cooked in the names of the consultant from the town clerk’s office shared with the executives whose contract expired in June 2024, when we questioned David Kyasanku (Town Clerk) did not want any other officer to clarify and yet the consultants obligations were fulfilled, if we are to arrest this time round the town clerk must not be left”. Adriko stated

Consultant, Town clerk on spot for alleged connivance.

The contract for SEGAMU 14 Consults Ltd, the supervising consultant, reportedly expired in June 2024. However, documents continued surfacing afterward under the consultant’s name. Whistleblowers alleged that some of these documents were prepared by city officials and individuals linked to the contractor rather than the legitimate consultant team that supervised the project in Arua.

“Those documents do not have authentic evidence and some of you have been receiving them through social media platforms including WhatsApp, please disregard them”. Adriko stated

In one of the most explosive allegations, councillors were told by the Secretary Finance Planning and Administration that the Accounting Officer (City Town Clerk) David Kyasanku was allegedly mobilizing support for approval of the disputed supplementary budget by promising facilitation payments to councillors.

Adriko who laid grave evidences of the Auditor general’s Value for Money report of the road project, reports from the contracts Manager, the signed contract agreements and a detailed analysis report urged councillors to approve 1,524,031 shillings other than the 513,511,823 shillings.

The motion further alleged that representatives brought before council by the Accounting Officer to defend the contractor had not even worked on the Arua project, with some reportedly coming from Gulu and Kitgum projects instead.

He also warned that the action of the town clerk was a deliberate attempt to manipulate public systems and divert taxpayer funds through fabricated obligations.

“Somewhere someone has selfish interest, I am aware some of you councillors were promised shs.10million, shs.5million if you had approved the over 500million shillings, I am leaving the council but we must learn to stand on the truth if someone is to be arrested, they must start with the accounting officer because he refused to implement council resolutions even when the Mayor wrote to him directing payment of the funds, this town clerk paid death ears”. Adriko started

Technical officers Defend Contractor.

David Kyasanku, the Arua city town clerk vows not to sign any documents related to the USMID-AF specifically pertaining the Go down Road construction. Kyasanku who based his defense on the October 10, 2025 letter of the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance Ramandan Ggoobi directing the release and utilization of the 2.023billion shillings for offsetting contractual obligations and the consultant’s report that indicated that contract was demanding 1.589billion said he will not approve any funds for street lighting or even less than what the consultant had indicated.

“I can’t approve what doesn’t have a backup and what the consultant gives me is what I will pay but if the council insists, I will not sign for the release but I need to write to my bosses for an independent audit for the third time”. Kyasanku noted

In his letter dated 10^th December 2025 under Ref ENG/204/10 by Contracts Manager Anthony Dradria who also doubles as the city’s Senior Civil Engineer, insisted that the net payable to the contractor is 513,511,823 Shillings and urged the city’s Executive to pay without delay.

The Assistant Deputy Town Clerk Arua City Emmanuel Angudubo who represented the office of the town clerk during the May 11, 2026 council sitting, started with a disclaimer statement saying he is not an accounting officer and warn that approving unsupported payments could expose city officials to criminal liability once investigations are completed.

“I’m not the accounting officer, actually the first person to be asked about this project is the project manager not any other person because he implemented the project from the time go to the end. My guidance is the council should approve the 513.5million shillings as per the contract manager to avoid litigations”. Angudubo noted.

The controversy has now left Arua City deeply divided, with some officials demanding a full forensic audit into all USMID-AF expenditures.

The Councillors Stand

Meanwhile, council was urged to redirect the bulk of the supplementary funds toward procurement of solar street lights rather than disputed contractor claims.

The councillors upon deliberating on the matter were convinced by the report presented by the Secretary for Finance, Planning and Administration and redirected and approved 2.023billion Shillings of Which 2.021billion shillings has been directed  for procurement of new 192 new solar street lights based on the documentary evidences tabled before the Council for Arua Hill Round About to Ewuata (Pakwach Road), Ediofe Cathedral Road (Pajulu Road) and State Lodge to Mvara S.S Gate to MUBS Arua Campus Road (Mt. Wati Road) under USMID-AF and 1,524million shillings be paid to China Railways Seventh Group Co. Ltd as outstanding obligation.

Mbigiti Godfrey Jona the Deputy Resident city commissioner in charge of Ayivu division threatened to arrest whoever has a hand in the scandal saying money meant for service delivery must serve the purpose.

“We cannot pay someone out of pressure, we must pay for work done otherwise whoever is engineering such useless reports must present evidence with prove or else we shall arrest them”. Mbigiti responded.

Yako Teddy Gloria the Arua city speaker after each and every member of the councils submissions asked those in support to respond and councillors unanimously responded okaying that the city council will pay the contractor 1,524,031 shillings instead of the 513,511,823 shillings as demanded by both the city town clerk, and the contractor.

“Those who say the contractor China Railway Seventh Group Company Limited be paid 1,524,031 shillings bot not 513,511,823 shillings and a total sum of 2.021billion shillings be used for procuring solar streetlights, those in favor say Aye, and those not in favor say Nay….. (Councillors …Aye…) Ayes have it” the speaker then ruled immediately directing the funds be used as per the council resolution.

The scandal now threatens to become one of the biggest corruption investigations tied to municipal infrastructure financing in northern Uganda, with several senior officials potentially facing scrutiny over abuse of office, fraudulent accounting, and causing financial loss to government.

As pressure mounted, the matter attracted the attention of the Inspector General of Government (IGG), who in their letter dated 13^th April 2026 signed by Nicholas Kajura wrote to the town clerk Arua city demanding for documents regarding the rehabilitation of Go Down Road under USMID program to assist in investigations into the project.

Arua’s Growing Corruption Crisis and the National Picture.

Since 2019, a total of 11 technical officers from Arua city have so far been arrested and either directed to refund funds or interdicted in connection with mismanagement of infrastructure, road funds, and service delivery by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and the Inspectorate of Government (IGG).

According to reports by the Inspectorate of Government (IG) in 2024 and 2025, Uganda loses an estimated UGX 10 trillion (approximately $2.7 billion) annually to corruption. Public procurement is a primary driver of these losses, accounting for some of the largest corruption-related financial drains. This staggering figure accounts for about 44% of the country’s domestic revenue, severely impacting public service delivery, infrastructure development, and economic growth

As investigators close in, the central question remains: how much public money would have been lost had the discrepancies not been uncovered?

END.

By Vasco Gift

Growing concerns are emerging in Koboko District over alleged illegal mercury mining activities in Abuku Sub-county, with local leaders, environmental experts, and community activists warning of potential health, environmental, and safety risks associated with the unregulated extraction of the toxic mineral.

Speaking to the press, the LCIII Chairperson of Abuku Sub-county, Hon. Swali Itima, said local authorities have not yet confirmed the presence of mercury deposits in the area due to the lack of technical equipment and expertise required to conduct a proper geological assessment.

“We cannot conclusively confirm the existence of mercury in the area because there has been no official survey conducted by the relevant authorities. As leaders, we do not have the technical capacity or equipment to verify such claims,” he said.

Despite the absence of official confirmation, Hon. Itima acknowledged reports that some community members have been involved in mining activities since last year under the guidance of an individual believed to be from Western Uganda. According to local accounts, the alleged operator is rarely seen at the site, and his identity remains largely unknown to district authorities.

The mining site is reportedly located near the Abuku Sub-county headquarters.

Hon. Itima further noted that those involved in the activity have cited high operational costs, including the purchase of expensive chemicals used in the extraction process, as one of the challenges affecting the continuity of the operation.

As concerns continue to mount, leaders across the district are calling for immediate intervention by government authorities.

The LCIII Chairperson of Lobule Sub-county, Hon. Suleiman Banga, emphasized that Uganda’s laws require all mineral exploration and extraction activities to be authorized by the relevant government institutions.

“The Government of Uganda does not permit illegal mining. Any individual or company interested in mineral extraction must obtain the necessary licenses and approvals from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and other relevant authorities,” he said.

Hon. Banga warned residents against participating in unauthorized mining activities, arguing that local communities are vulnerable to exploitation by individuals operating outside the law.

Community activist Ronald Baiga, commonly known as Kanawara, expressed deep concern over the alleged illegal mining operations. He said local residents are reportedly being used to carry out excavation work without adequate protective gear, exposing them to significant health and safety risks.

According to Baiga, the activities threaten water sources, agricultural land, livestock, and the general wellbeing of surrounding communities.

“The reported mining activities pose serious risks to women, children, and livestock through potential contamination of water sources and farmland. The excavation of deep pits also presents a physical danger to community members,” he said.

Baiga further alleged that landowners and community members were not adequately consulted before the commencement of the activities and called for a comprehensive investigation by the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines.

He urged authorities to conduct a thorough assessment of the site and prosecute any individuals found to be operating outside the law.

Koboko District leaders have also taken note of the allegations.

Hon. Mambu Ashrafu, an LCIII Chairperson in Koboko District, said he had not received any formal communication from the individuals behind the mining activities but assured residents that the district leadership would engage the relevant ministries to establish the facts and determine the appropriate course of action.

Meanwhile, the District Environment Officer, Alege Wadri, clarified that local governments do not have the mandate to issue mining licenses.

“As a district, we cannot authorize mineral extraction. Such powers rest with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development,” he explained.

Wadri revealed that district authorities had earlier written to an individual reportedly linked to the activities after learning that local residents were being engaged in excavation work without the necessary approvals.

He warned that the continued extraction of minerals without proper authorization could have serious environmental consequences and called upon residents to desist from participating in the activity.

“If these activities continue without the required documentation and approval, the district will be compelled to take appropriate action in accordance with the law,” he said.

The Member of Parliament for Koboko County, Hon. Emmanuel Natal Banya, also pledged to follow up on the allegations and engage relevant authorities to establish the legality of the mining operations.

Experts warn that mercury is among the most hazardous substances to human health and the environment. Exposure to mercury can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and blood cells, while prolonged contact may result in severe health complications. Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable to mercury poisoning, which can lead to developmental and neurological disorders.

Environmentalists further caution that mercury contamination can pollute soil and water sources, threaten biodiversity, and affect agricultural productivity. Illegal mining sites are also associated with increased risks of accidents, including the collapse of excavation pits that may result in injuries or fatalities.

Under Uganda’s Mining and Minerals Act, 2022, unauthorized mineral extraction is prohibited and punishable by law. Individuals found guilty of engaging in illegal mining activities may face substantial fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the nature and severity of the offence.

Legal and Environmental Concerns

The alleged mercury mining activities in Abuku Sub-county come at a time when government authorities are intensifying efforts to curb illegal mineral extraction across Uganda. Under the Mining and Minerals Act, 2022, all mineral exploration, prospecting, and mining activities must be conducted under a valid licence or permit issued by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. Individuals found conducting mining operations without authorization face severe penalties, including substantial fines, imprisonment, or both. The Act further prohibits the use of mercury in mining operations due to its well-documented health and environmental risks. Violators may face fines of up to 5,000 currency points, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.

In addition, the Constitution of Uganda under Article 39 guarantees every citizen the right to a clean and healthy environment, while the National Environment Act, 2019 places an obligation on individuals and institutions to protect natural resources from degradation. Any activity that contaminates water sources, destroys vegetation, or endangers public health may attract legal sanctions under environmental protection laws.

Environmental experts warn that mercury contamination can persist in soil and water for decades. Once released into rivers, wetlands, and agricultural land, the toxic metal can accumulate in fish, livestock, and crops, posing long-term health risks to communities. Exposure to mercury has been linked to neurological disorders, kidney damage, developmental complications in children, and reproductive health challenges among women.

The concerns are particularly significant for the West Nile sub-region, which hosts some of Uganda’s most environmentally sensitive and densely populated refugee-hosting districts. Uganda currently hosts approximately 1.5 million refugees, with a large proportion residing in West Nile districts including Koboko, Adjumani, Yumbe, Arua, Madi Okollo, and Obongi. The growing population has increased pressure on land, water resources, forests, and public services, making environmental conservation a critical priority for local governments and development partners.

Development experts caution that illegal mining activities can undermine ongoing efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, and environmental restoration in the region. In Koboko and neighbouring districts, agriculture remains the primary source of income for the majority of households. Any contamination of farmland or water sources could directly affect food security, household incomes, and public health.

Stakeholders are therefore calling for an urgent geological assessment of the site, environmental impact investigations, and enforcement of existing mining and environmental laws to safeguard communities and protect the natural resources upon which the people of West Nile depend.

As questions surrounding the alleged mercury mining activities in Abuku Sub-county remain unanswered, residents and leaders alike are calling for urgent investigations to establish the facts, protect communities, and safeguard the environment from potentially irreversible harm.

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