Leaders push for new road to aid UPDF operations in Apaa

____________________

In an effort to curb escalating violence in the disputed Apaa area, Amuru district leaders have proposed the construction of a 180-kilometre strategic security road.

The proposed road would cut across the vast 827 square kilometre territory claimed by both the Madi community of Adjumani and the Acholi of Amuru.

Michael Lakony, the Amuru district LC5 chairperson, announced plans to engage the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) to undertake the road construction, which would improve connectivity from Apaa centre to remote villages such as Oyanag, Ogoro Pii, Gulu-Gulu, Tebeyo, Bedmot, Acholiber, and Alok ki Raa.

Currently, the lack of road infrastructure hampers security operations and slows emergency responses.

Lakony said the road would enable rapid intervention by security forces and facilitate efficient motorised patrols and surveillance across the region. He noted that authorities often struggle to access remote communities when violence erupts.

Addressing more than 2,000 Apaa residents, many of whom had fled attacks in areas like Alok ki Raa and Acholiber, Lakony appealed for calm and resilience. The displaced residents are currently sheltered in Tebeyo under UPDF protection.

He urged residents to remain vigilant against provocateurs who might incite further violence and encouraged them to report any threats to nearby UPDF personnel.

Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, commander of the UPDF’s 4th Division Infantry, expressed concerns to New Vision about the army’s challenges in responding to attacks due to poor roads and dispersed settlements. He revealed plans to establish additional UPDF detachments to boost protection in the area.

During a recent visit to Apaa, it was revealed that soldiers have resorted to hiring bodaboda riders to navigate blocked and poorly maintained roads, as army trucks cannot access many conflict-affected areas. Motorcycle transport in the region costs between sh30,000 and sh40,000, reflecting the risky conditions.

To manage the ongoing crisis, a curfew has been imposed, barring civilian movement in Apaa after 6:59pm. Entry into the area now requires prior security clearance.

However, community members have criticised a recent ban on essential farming tools such as spears, bows, arrows and machetes. They argue these implements are vital for agricultural work and self-defence. Leaders have clarified that tools may be used strictly for farming purposes and urged against any misuse.

Anthony Akol, Kilak North MP and chairperson of the West Nile, Acholi, Lango, Karamoja (WALK) region, pledged to present the community’s concerns for national discussion. He has also engaged the Ministry of Relief and Disaster Preparedness to request food aid and other relief support for affected residents.

Tension and distress remain high among locals.

Michael Oloyotoo, chairperson for persons with disabilities in Apaa, voiced scepticism about the timing of the leaders’ visit. He accused them of shifting political allegiance to the NRM without consulting their constituents and questioned their motives ahead of the election season.

Hellen Oryem, another resident, said locals feel intimidated by security personnel, who threaten arrests for community leaders accused of incitement. She described a dire humanitarian situation, including a lack of food, healthcare, clean water and shelter.

“We don’t have food because our hut was burned, and our land is now cultivated by intruders using tractors. The government must address this issue. Soldiers do not assist us; when the Madi attack, they go unpunished, but if we retaliate, we are arrested. Our children are under constant threat,” she said.

Geoffrey Komakeceh Olodi, chairperson of Alok ki Raa sub-ward—one of the worst-hit areas with over 300 residents—criticised the current UPDF deployment as ineffective.

He proposed that troops be stationed at key points identified as vulnerable entry routes for attackers to bolster security in the community.