Museveni Vows to Continue Disarming Karamoja, Pledges Development Investments
President Museveni has renewed his pledge to disarm armed pastoralists in Karamoja and lay the foundation for long-term development.
Concluding a three-day tour of the region, Museveni underscored the urgency of removing illegal firearms, which he described as a significant threat to national stability.
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“The first priority is removing guns from the hands of the Karamojong,” Museveni said, emphasising that disarmament is the key to achieving peace and fostering development in the historically marginalised region.
Known for its pastoral lifestyle, Karamoja has long struggled with insecurity, stemming from cattle raids and the proliferation of illegal firearms. The government’s renewed efforts aim to replicate the success seen in other regions where disarmament has led to economic growth.
“Once the guns are gone, we will follow with massive investments in education and water for production,” the President said, adding that these measures will help transition the Karamojong from their traditional pastoral lifestyle to modern economic opportunities.
The government’s strategy, Museveni explained, seeks to ensure Karamoja is no longer left behind. “Other tribes that surrendered illegal guns have transformed economically. It’s time for Karamoja to follow suit,” he said.
Museveni further cautioned against the dangers of firearms in the wrong hands, stating that disarmament is not just a regional necessity but a national imperative.
“Guns in the wrong hands destabilise the country. That is why disarming Karamoja remains my first priority,” he said.
The President’s tour of Karamoja comes at a time when the government is ramping up initiatives to improve infrastructure and social services in the region. His visit reaffirms a commitment to reshaping the narrative of Karamoja and integrating it into Uganda’s broader development framework.
