President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has come out strongly to address the growing concerns about the Balaalo herdsmen and their activities in Northern, North Western, and Eastern Uganda. In a series of messages shared on social media, the President explained that his attention was drawn to the lies and confusion spreading online about the Balaalo and their cattle practices. He pointed out several serious mistakes that some Balaalo have made and why government actions against them are justified.
The President began by criticizing the Balaalo for letting their cattle graze on other people’s crops, a practice locally called kwonesa. He asked whether such behavior shows patriotism or respect for a united Uganda. Museveni noted that this kind of grazing causes conflict because the Balaalo introduce cattle into areas without proper fencing, like barbed wire or chain links, to control their animals. Without such fencing, the animals stray into people’s farms and destroy crops, creating tension with the local communities.
Another major problem the President highlighted was the lack of water sources on many of the farms where the Balaalo operate. He said that during the dry season, Balaalo often move their cattle in search of water, which leads to more trespassing on local people’s farms. This causes more kwonesa and damage to crops. Even those who may have fenced their land sometimes do not provide permanent water, forcing them to move around, causing more conflict.
President Museveni also pointed out that careless fencing has led to blocking people’s access routes to public places like the Nile River. This kind of behavior angers local communities and disrupts the peaceful co-existence between different groups in Uganda.
On the issue of land ownership, the President said that whether the Balaalo legally bought or rented land should be handled by lawyers and courts. However, he made it clear that even if the land was legally acquired, no one has the right to allow their cattle to destroy people’s crops or block public pathways. He emphasized that ownership does not give anyone the right to disturb others.
Museveni also addressed claims that his executive orders are tribal or unfair. He responded directly to Andrew Mwenda, a well-known public figure, telling him not to misrepresent the purpose of the government’s actions. He said that his orders are not against Ugandans moving freely within the country, but they are aimed at stopping illegal and irrational behavior, such as grazing animals in unauthorized areas or government ranches.
The President gave an example of a Munyoro woman named Adyeeri, a fruit farmer in Nwoya, who is respected and loved by the locals. Unlike the Balaalo who bring animals and cause destruction, crop farmers like Adyeeri are not causing any problems because crops do not eat other crops, as Museveni cleverly put it. He said that such peaceful settlers do not face opposition from the locals.
He also revealed that some Balaalo have invaded government ranches, which are supposed to be used for specific development projects like cattle breeding. Their actions have disrupted these plans and caused more frustration among the communities. Locals are now questioning why the government does not allow them to also use these ranches if others are allowed to occupy them freely.
In conclusion, President Museveni’s message was clear: Uganda is one country for all citizens, but everyone must respect each other’s rights, land, and livelihoods. Grazing cattle on people’s farms without permission, blocking public roads, and ignoring government regulations will not be tolerated. His call is not against migration or unity, but against lawlessness, destruction, and disrespect. He urged all Ugandans to act responsibly, follow the law, and live in harmony.
