By Spy Uganda
Ugandan authorities have received 24 head of cattle recovered from Teretenya in South Sudan, months after they were stolen from Lamwaka B Village in Lamwo District.
The animals had been raided between January and March 2026 from Aringa Parish in Potika Sub-county, leaving affected families counting losses in both livelihood and cultural value.
While receiving the cattle, Lamwo Resident District Commissioner William Komakech welcomed the recovery, describing it as a major step toward restoring hope among the affected communities.
“This recovery gives hope to the affected families, because cattle are not only a source of wealth, but also part of the Acholi cultural heritage,” Komakech said, while calling for the immediate return of the remaining stolen animals.
The recovery was facilitated through joint efforts between Ugandan and South Sudanese authorities, highlighting growing cooperation across the border. Leading the delegation from South Sudan, Ikotos County Commissioner Timon Loboi reaffirmed his country’s commitment to ensuring all missing animals are traced and returned.
He further noted that compensation would be considered for any cattle that may have died or been lost during the raids, and called for peaceful coexistence between border communities.
“This process is about strengthening trust and ensuring harmony among our people,” Loboi emphasized.
On the Ugandan side, the 5 Division Deputy Commander Gai Mpadwa said the successful recovery and handover demonstrate improved collaboration in addressing cross-border insecurity.
He added that such coordinated efforts are key to enhancing peace and stability along the Uganda–South Sudan border, which has in the past experienced cattle raids and related tensions.
The handover exercise was witnessed by security officials and local leaders from both countries, signaling a shared commitment to resolving cross-border conflicts and protecting livelihoods.
For the communities in Lamwo, the return of the cattle marks not only economic relief but also the restoration of a vital part of their cultural identity.
