Nomadic pastoralists from South Sudan cross into Moyowith 2,000 cattle

A group of nomadic pastoralists, believed to be from Sudan, has crossed into Uganda with approximately 2,000 cattle, settling in Padiga, Metu Sub-county, Moyo District.

Moyo District security officials report that the cattle herders crossed the international border while searching for pasture and water, seemingly unaware of the boundary.

Goffin Gore, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Moyo, confirmed their presence, noting that the pastoralists are located about 5km from the nearest human settlement.

"We have visited the location, and they appear to be peaceful people, so there is no cause for alarm. We are engaging with them to see how they can return to their place of origin," Gore stated.

He also mentioned ongoing communication with authorities in Kajo-Keji, South Sudan.

Some pastoralists identified themselves as part of an advance team, with indications that more may follow.

The North West Nile Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Ignatius Dragudu, noted that plans are in place to facilitate their return to South Sudan.

Moyo District Local Council Five Chairperson, Williams Anyama, called on the government to investigate the reasons behind their crossing.

"I am a bit skeptical because how can someone move with thousands of cattle, claiming not to know international borders? This could be a ploy to raid cattle from the local community," Anyama remarked.

He added that district leaders were initially informed of the pastoralists' arrival, but communication ceased as the herders changed their entry route.