Published on 18/06/2025
The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4 Infantry Division, Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, has called for calm, cooperation, and adherence to the law ahead of the planned eviction of unregulated cattle herders, commonly known as the Balaalo, from Northern Uganda.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Division Headquarters in Gulu, Maj Gen Busizoori outlined the framework and objectives of Operation Harmony, a 65-day initiative aimed at restoring order, protecting communal land, and reducing conflict caused by unregulated cattle grazing.
“This operation is not about evicting people, it’s about relocating cattle that are not supposed to be here. We are following the Presidential Executive Order No. 3 of 2025,” he clarified. “No cattle will be allowed to cross Karuma Bridge without permits from District Veterinary Officers (DVOs).”
Set to commence on 25 June, the operation will unfold in three phases:
1. Mobilisation and Sensitisation – preparing logistics and educating communities;
2. Voluntary Eviction – giving herders a chance to relocate peacefully;
3. Enforced Eviction – law enforcement will intervene in cases of non-compliance.
Government agencies involved in the operation include the UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, National Forestry Authority, local governments, cultural institutions, and other key stakeholders.
The initiative is a direct response to Executive Order No. 2 of 2025, which raised concerns about uncontrolled cattle movement, land disputes, blocked traditional water points, and grazing on unfenced land.
Maj Gen Busizoori assured the public that the exercise would be carried out with order and structure. “Cattle will be handled parish by parish. There will be no shortcuts. All operations will be monitored through the Operation Data Centre established at the Division Headquarters in Gulu,” he said.
Committees have been formed to verify land ownership and rental arrangements, with legal officers and magistrates overseeing any disputes. Abandoned or unclaimed cattle may be auctioned through a lawful process initiated by DVOs.
The commander issued a clear warning against political meddling in the process. “Politicians must not accompany field teams. This is to avoid political bias and ensure the operation remains neutral,” he stressed. “Field officers must remain professional and not act on emotion.”
He further warned against acts of sabotage or incitement of violence. “Anyone found committing such acts will face arrest and prosecution,” Maj Gen Busizoori said, urging full cooperation from local communities.
He also called on the media to share accurate, verified information, and encouraged all stakeholders to work collaboratively under the guidance of the DVOs. “We appeal to the public and all those affected to coordinate with the operation teams on the ground. The goal is to ensure the process is smooth, lawful, and fair,” he concluded.
Amuru Resident District Commissioner, Mr Osborne Ocen, echoed the call for calm and urged political leaders to refrain from incitement. “We call for your support to ensure all procedures are followed correctly. This will help perfect the operation,” he said.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police Acaye cautioned against criminal activity during the exercise, assuring the public that enforcement will be carried out firmly but fairly.
The operation, which will run until late August, targets the removal of between 150 to 500 cattle per parish through a phased and coordinated approach to minimise disruption.
