Implementation of a Presidential executive order number 3 of 2025 on cattle movement has sparked discussion among cattle traders in Dokolo district.
The move has left many traders feeling frustrated and confused as they navigate the new policies.
The Dokolo District Animal Traders Association, a group that was established in 2016 and currently has 50 active members, recently held an emergency meeting to address their concerns.
According to Jennifer Ecir, a member of the association, traders entering another sub-region are being detained at checkpoints along the Dokolo-Amolatar road.
“This has caused major disruptions to their businesses, leaving many unable to continue with their trading activities. As a woman and a member of the association, Ecir explained that they have tried to intervene and rescue the traders, but have been unsuccessful” she explained.
She also highlighted that most of the traders are women, widows, and single mothers who heavily rely on this business to support their families.
She pleaded with security officials to consider their situation and not interfere with their livelihoods.
Benard Ongom, a trader from Bata town council, expressed that the traders lack information on the new policy and called upon leaders to sensitize them before any further arrests are made.
He also appealed to the office of the RDC Dokolo to intervene and address this issue before the traders are forced to demonstrate.
Meanwhile, Denis Oyaka, a trader from Kwera sub-county, pointed out that the government’s only mistake was implementing the policy without proper sensitization.
He urged traders in neighboring districts such as Amolatar and Kaberamaido to join forces and speak out against this move.
Another trader, Bosco Okot, expressed his dissatisfaction with the fact that traders from Buganda sub-region are being easily cleared, while traders from other regions are being denied entry and exits with their animals.
Akope Kenneth, the leader of the group, expressed his disappointment regarding the arrest of some traders on Monday.
”These traders were on their way from Ocero market in Kaberamaido district to West Nile and Acholi sub-regions. When i went to the checkpoint where the traders were being detained, i was informed by the officers that the order to arrest them came from higher authorities” he said.
According to Akope, this prompted him to contact the UPDF regional leader and urge them to first sensitize before making arrests.
Upon being contacted for a response, Barbara Akec, the resident district commissioner for Dokolo, stated that she had received complaints from the Dokolo animal traders association.
Akec further explained that the reason for the arrests was due to Presidential executive order number 3 of 2025, which aimed to send back groups, such as the Balalo, who bring their animals to stay but not cattle traders.
She assured that she would work with the district and regional leaders to find a resolution to the issue as soon as possible.
She also clarified that the presidential executive order number 3 of 2025 was meant to target groups like Balalo, not cattle traders.
In the meantime, traders are appealing for a more understanding and inclusive approach to this issue.
