Africa-Press – Uganda. The Karamoja sub-region is emerging from decades of insecurity and underdevelopment into a period of peace, stability, and economic transformation, thanks to sustained government interventions and improved security, according to Maj Gen Wilberforce Karate Sserunkuma, Commander of the UPDF 3 Infantry Division.
Sserunkuma made the remarks at the conclusion of a 10-day domestic study and research tour by members and staff of the National Defence College–Uganda (NDC-U), which began on December 8, 2025.
The tour included engagements with local communities, district leaders, and key stakeholders, as well as visits to strategic industrial and economic sites across the country.
The delegation toured Tembo Steels in Iganga, the SINO-Uganda Industrial Hub in Mbale, the Soroti Solar Power Project, Sunbelt Cement Factory, Sandbelt Marble Mining in Moroto, and Kidepo Valley National Park in Karenga District, among other locations.
In a message delivered on his behalf by Col Santurino Tumuranzye, Division Operations and Training Officer, Maj Gen Sserunkuma declared that the era of cattle raiding and chronic insecurity in Karamoja has ended. “Gone are the days of cattle raids.
The long-held belief that Karamoja would wait indefinitely for development is now history,” he said, noting that the region is increasingly contributing to Uganda’s economic base.
He attributed the transformation to the government’s comprehensive disarmament programme, improved security, and socio-economic initiatives including the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, the Youth Livelihood Programme, and sustained civic education.
These measures have encouraged communities to shift from cattle raiding to agriculture, mining, industrial production, and trade.
Maj Gen Sserunkuma also commended President Museveni for establishing the National Defence College–Uganda to develop strategic leaders capable of addressing complex national security challenges.
Brig Gen Kefa Nangeso, Dean of Studies at NDC-U and leader of the delegation, said the study tour confirmed that Karamoja is on the right trajectory for national security and economic development.
He emphasized that national security extends beyond military measures to include social, economic, and cultural dimensions.
He described Karamoja as a region of geo-strategic importance, with diverse economic activities strengthening its social and economic foundations.
Local leaders acknowledged the positive changes. Joseph Labot Nangole, Amudat District Local Council V Chairperson, praised the cooperation between the UPDF, security agencies, and the local population, noting it has enhanced peace and created opportunities for investment.
“Karamoja is no longer a backward region,” he said.
John Robert Adupa Akiiki, Local Council III Chairperson for Lotisan Sub-county, observed that youth involvement in cattle raiding has significantly reduced, with many now engaged in productive economic activities.
He called for intensified civic education to ensure young people remain focused on development.
The delegation included senior staff from NDC-U, officials from the UPDF 3 Infantry Division, local government leaders, and other stakeholders from across Karamoja.
The study tour is part of NDC-U’s mandate to expose military and civilian leaders to practical national security and development dynamics, reinforcing the link between peace, stability, and sustainable economic growth.
Source: Nilepost News
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press