President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has issued an immediate directive allowing local pastoralists in Karamoja to resume grazing their animals in the Pian Upe Game Reserve, halting what he described as premature eviction attempts by wildlife authorities.
Addressing thousands of cheering residents in Nabilatuk District during his campaign rally on Wednesday, 28th Oct 2025, the President said he had been informed about the decision by Uganda Wildlife Authority to halt pastoralists from grazing in the reserve.
“Let them graze. Nobody should chase you until we meet with your elders and agree on a permanent solution,” said President Museveni.
Museveni pledged that pastoralism and conservation would co-exist, noting that other regions like Karenga and Kaabong have successfully leveraged tourism without displacing communities.
“Tourism is good. Grazing is also your livelihood. We shall find a formula where both survive,” he assured.
The President ordered that elders from affected districts be invited to a high-level meeting with UWA, community leaders, and security agencies to agree on a structured, peaceful approach to land use in Pian Upe.
Museveni revealed that the government will introduce boarding units in select government schools across Karamoja to support access to quality education.
The President said the plan will begin with strategically selected schools in every sub-county to ensure that every child has a safe place to stay and study, regardless of grazing patterns, drought, or family movements.
“Children must be in school even when families move with the cattle. Boarding units are the solution,” Museveni said.
The project aims to prevent absenteeism and dropout rates caused by seasonal migration and improve academic performance in the region.
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, who accompanied the President, praised Karamoja parents for embracing education and urged them to guard the peace that now allows development to thrive.
“We want your children to stay in school, safe and focused. The future belongs to educated children,” she told the crowd.
Museveni reiterated that the NRM’s mission for Karamoja has now entered a new phase: transforming peace into wealth.
“We brought peace. Now, we are going to create wealth and jobs for our people,” he declared.
Residents erupted in ululations as Museveni reminded them of the transformation the region has experienced from conflict to stability, from hunger relief to modern economic planning.
The dual announcements grazing rights reinstated and boarding facilities coming to government schools resonated deeply with the community.
President also addressed a media briefing at Morulinga state Lodge in Napak where he emphasised massive economic transformation in the region.
On Thursday, the NRM presidential candidate Museveni will campaign in Napak district and later enter Teso sub region from Kapelebyong district.
