Written By | BK Mugizi
The Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, described cattle theft as a serious threat to livelihoods, economic stability, and the Government's poverty reduction efforts.
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MBARARA
Government has directed security agencies across the Greater Mbarara region to intensify operations against escalating cattle theft following growing public concern over increasing livestock losses.
Addressing a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre on Wednesday evening, the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, described cattle theft as a serious threat to livelihoods, economic stability, and the Government's poverty reduction efforts.
"This disturbing escalation of cattle theft in the Greater Mbarara region has generated widespread public concern and legitimate outcry among our people," the minister said.
According to the Government, reports indicate that livestock theft has reached alarming levels, leaving many farmers without the animals that sustain their households and incomes.
"Livestock is the backbone of the economy of Ankole and much of western Uganda. Beyond its economic value, cattle represent years of hard work, family wealth, and hope for a better future," Babalanda said.
"The theft of cattle is not merely an offence against individual farmers; it is a direct attack on the Government's wealth creation agenda and our national mission of lifting Ugandans out of poverty."
PDM Investments Affected
The Government also expressed concern that some of the stolen cattle had reportedly been purchased using funds from the Parish Development Model (PDM), one of its flagship programmes aimed at improving household incomes.
"Government deliberately invested these resources to enable vulnerable households to build sustainable incomes and escape poverty. When criminals steal such livestock, they sabotage one of Government's flagship socio-economic transformation programmes and frustrate the efforts of hardworking Ugandans striving to improve their lives," the minister said.
Security Agencies Directed to Act
In response, the minister directed all Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), District Internal Security Officers (DISOs), and district security committees across the Greater Mbarara region to prioritise the fight against cattle theft.
"This vice must receive the same urgency and coordinated response accorded to other organised crimes that threaten national stability and economic development," she said.
The Uganda Police Force was also directed to strengthen intelligence-led operations, increase patrols, deepen investigations, and dismantle criminal networks involved in livestock theft.
"The criminals involved are increasingly organised, and our response must be even more organised, coordinated, and decisive," Babalanda added.
Progress Recorded in Mbarara
The minister commended the Mbarara District security leadership for the progress made in combating cattle theft.
"I commend the Resident District Commissioner for Mbarara, Mr Nicholas Nuwagira, together with the District Police Commander and the entire district security team, for the commendable progress registered so far," she said.
According to the Government, ongoing operations have already led to the arrest of more than 20 suspects believed to be linked to organised cattle theft syndicates.
"This demonstrates that where security agencies remain vigilant and coordinated, criminals can be defeated," she added.
Cross-Border Smuggling Concerns
Investigations have also established that stolen cattle are commonly sold within Uganda, particularly in Mitooma and Kasese districts, while others are smuggled across the western border into the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The minister warned against the illegal movement and trade of livestock.
"No animal should be transported or traded without proper movement permits and verification of ownership. Livestock markets, checkpoints, and transport corridors must be subjected to heightened inspection," she said.
"Anyone found transporting, purchasing, or facilitating the movement of cattle without the requisite documentation should be thoroughly investigated."
Police Urged to Utilise Government Resources
The minister further reminded police commanders at district and sub-county levels that the Government had invested in motorcycles to strengthen mobility, surveillance, and rapid response.
"These motorcycles must now be fully deployed to protect our farming communities. The public expects visible policing, timely responses, and proactive operations that prevent crime rather than merely responding after losses have occurred," she said.
Appeal to Cattle Keepers
The minister also urged livestock farmers to strengthen vigilance and improve security measures on their farms.
"To our cattle keepers, remain alert and strengthen community vigilance. Secure your kraals, properly identify your animals where possible, and immediately report suspicious persons, vehicles, or unusual livestock movements," Babalanda urged.
She reaffirmed the Government's commitment to protecting lives, property, and investments across the country.
