Uganda military conducts cattle evictions and elephant relocation operations

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has evicted over 14,000 cattle from the East Acholi and Lango sub-regions since June 2025. This brings the total number of cattle removed from the Acholi, West Nile, and Lango areas to 86,000. The operation targets cattle from government ranches, such as Aswa and Maruzi, as well as various communities. This action follows Executive Order Number 2 of 2025 issued by President Yoweri Museveni, which directs the eviction of Balaalo cattle keepers. The order also allows for audits of keepers who claim legitimate land ownership and permanent water access.

In a separate wildlife management effort, the UPDF and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) have launched ‘Operation Safe Corridor’ in the Kitgum District. The joint operation aims to drive stray elephants back to the Kidepo Conservation Area to reduce human-wildlife conflict. The mission utilizes UPDF helicopters and ground personnel to move elephants through various villages. To prevent future incursions, authorities have erected a nine-kilometre electric fence at the Kitgum-Karenga border, with plans to install an additional five-kilometre fence in the Orom East and Gule sub-counties.