President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered the closure of illegal gold mining sites in Okemer, Abim District, directing the 5th Infantry Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to enforce a strict ban on illegal miners.
This initiative aims to provide the government with sufficient time to regulate and formalise mining activities in the area.
The directive comes in response to a significant increase in mining activities across Alerek and Chamkok Sub-Counties, attracting thousands of individuals, including South Sudanese and Kenyans. The surge, compounded by inadequate sanitation, led the president to call for UPDF personnel to secure the mining regions.
Brig Gen Keith Katungi, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, met with local elders to clarify that the UPDF’s presence is focused on protecting government-owned natural resources. He explained, “Individual landowners possess surface rights, but everything beneath the soil belongs to the government.”
During a session with the Kakoka community, Brig Gen Katungi sought to address concerns and foster a spirit of cooperation. He encouraged local miners to formalise their operations by registering as either artisanal miners or local mining companies, which could then partner with international firms facilitated by the government. “The future belongs to the organised,” he stressed, urging the community to prioritise unity over political divisiveness.
He affirmed that the gold reserves in Abim are a national asset for all Ugandans, not just the Labwor community. He drew parallels to oil in the Albertine region and marble in Karamoja, stating, “National resources benefit all Ugandans, but those nearby can gain more through services, jobs, and partnerships, which necessitates good organisation.”
Community member Adei Peter offered a heartfelt apology to the Division Commander on behalf of his peers for previous unfounded allegations against the UPDF. He underscored the importance of unity within the community and the need for proper registration to formalise their operations.
In a collaborative effort, the 5th Division and local leaders agreed to take action against any civilian or military personnel found in the gold mines. Offenders, including members of the armed forces, will face a court martial in the region.
In a related matter, Mr John Ariko, chairman of the Abim Local Council 5, expressed gratitude to the UPDF for deploying a helicopter to deter wild animals, including elephants and buffaloes, from Kidepo Valley National Park, which had been raiding local farms and threatening residents. Despite the assistance, he noted the animals’ return and requested further UPDF help in relocating them.
The Division Commander acknowledged that the animals are migrating due to water shortages in Kidepo National Park and poaching from the South Sudanese border. He outlined government plans to desilt all dams in Karamoja, including those within the park, and confirmed that electric fencing of Kidepo National Park has been ordered by the President.
