By: Richard Onapatum
Kotido, Uganda- Leaders and community members from Kotido and Kaabong districts on 7th March 2025 convened at Muledo, the border area between the two districts, for an inter-ethnic dialogue focused on resource sharing and peaceful coexistence. Organized by Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA) in partnership with the Women International Peace Centre (WIPC), the event was funded by Norway and UN Women.
The dialogue included key leaders from both districts, such as Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Police, the Army, Brigade Commander 405 Mugarura Guston LCVs, LCs, church leaders, and community members. The chief guest, Kotido RDC Charles Ichogor, delivered a keynote address highlighting the significance of resource sharing for community prosperity. “Resource sharing and peaceful coexistence are fundamental to the prosperity of our communities. By working together and respecting each other’s needs, we can create a harmonious environment where everyone thrives, Ichogor stated.
Diana Oroma, Program Officer at Women International Peace Centre (WIPC), provided an overview of the meeting, stressing the importance of peace for community well-being. “When there is no peace, there is no happiness in the community,” she said.
Jesca Ruth Ataa, Executive Director of NARWOA, underscored the event’s importance in promoting unity and collaboration between the districts. “This dialogue is a testament to our commitment to peaceful coexistence and resource sharing for the betterment of our communities,” she remarked.
Leadership Support for the Initiative
LCV Kotido Lotee Paul Komol and Lokut Joseph Mukasa, the Vice Chairperson of Kaabong, expressed their support for the initiative and emphasized the need for ongoing cooperation. “We must work together to ensure that our communities thrive and that peace is maintained,” Komol stated. Mukasa added, “It is crucial for us to share the available resources like water and pasture and to promote peaceful coexistence.”
Symbolic Peace Ceremony
During the event, as a sign of peace and unity, the two communities cut and roasted two bulls together, symbolizing their commitment to working together and sharing resources.
Resolutions and Agreements
During the dialogue, several resolutions were made and signed:
– The Ministry of Lands will clear boundaries between Kaabong and Kotido.
– The district leadership of both Kotido and Kaabong will lobby for social services for the people of Lolelia South and Kacheri sub-county.
– The communities of Lolelia South and Kacheri will continue sharing available resources and maintaining peaceful coexistence.
– The governments of Kaabong and Kotido will build a market shade for both communities to promote economic empowerment.
– Politicians are urged to stop inciting violence in the communities and instead act as unifying factors.
Conclusion
The inter-ethnic dialogue between Kotido and Kaabong marks a significant step towards fostering peace and collaboration in the region. With the support of NARWOA, WIPC, and other stakeholders, the communities are poised to build a harmonious and prosperous future through resource sharing and peaceful coexistence.