By The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced the launch of Operation Harmony, a 65-day operation to relocate unregulated cattle herders, commonly known as the Balaalo, from Northern Uganda. The exercise is set to begin on June 25, 2025, in line with Presidential Executive Order No. 3 of 2025, and aims to restore order, protect communal land, and reduce conflicts related to illegal grazing.
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Speaking at a press briefing at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu, Division Commander Maj Gen Felix Busizoori clarified that the operation targets the cattle, not the people.
“This operation is not about evicting people; it’s about relocating cattle that are not supposed to be here,” he said. “No cattle will be allowed to cross Karuma Bridge without permits issued by District Veterinary Officers.”
The initiative will be conducted in three stages: mobilisation and sensitisation, voluntary eviction, and enforced eviction. Authorities say the first stage will focus on preparing logistics and educating communities, followed by peaceful relocation efforts. If necessary, enforcement will be applied in cases of non-compliance.
Multiple government bodies are involved, including the UPDF, Uganda Police Force, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, National Forestry Authority, local governments, and cultural institutions. An Operation Data Centre has been set up at the Division Headquarters to coordinate and monitor activities, and legal officers and magistrates have been assigned to manage land-related disputes.
Maj Gen Busizoori warned against political interference and incitement. “Politicians must not accompany field teams. This is to avoid political bias and ensure the operation remains neutral,” he said. He also urged security personnel to remain professional and cautioned against emotional reactions or abuse of authority.
He stressed that any abandoned or unclaimed cattle could be lawfully auctioned through procedures initiated by District Veterinary Officers. He also called on the media to report accurately and urged the public to work closely with the operation teams.
Amuru Resident District Commissioner Osborne Ocen echoed the call for calm and appealed to political leaders to refrain from incitement. “We call for your support to ensure all procedures are followed correctly. This will help perfect the operation,” he said.
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Commissioner of Police Acaye, representing the Inspector General of Police, warned against criminal activity during the operation and assured the public that enforcement would be firm but fair.
The operation, expected to run until late August, targets the removal of 150 to 500 cattle per parish, with the aim of minimising disruption while upholding the law.
