Porous borders blamed for rising livestock raids in Adjumani
According to Seseseko, uncontrolled movement across the porous borders between Arinyapi in Adjumani district and neighbouring areas of South Sudan, particularly through parts of Nimule, has enabled herdsmen to move freely into the subcounty.
LCIII chairperson of Arinyapi subcounty in Adjumani district, Dominic Seseseko, explained that armed herdsmen often cross into the area with livestock, especially through Elegu central village, and during their return, raid animals belonging to local communities. (Credit: Doreen Tasia)
ADJUMANI - The LCIII chairperson of Arinyapi subcounty in Adjumani district, Dominic Seseseko, has raised concern over increasing cases of cross-border livestock theft, warning that the situation is threatening the security of local residents.
The concern was raised on March 8, 2026, during the district’s celebration of International Women’s Day held in Arinyapi subcounty.
According to Seseseko, uncontrolled movement across the porous borders between Arinyapi in Adjumani district and neighbouring areas of South Sudan, particularly through parts of Nimule, has enabled herdsmen to move freely into the subcounty.
He explained that armed herdsmen often cross into the area with livestock, especially through Elegu central village, and during their return, raid animals belonging to local communities.
"These herdsmen, especially the Dinka community, move with guns and take advantage of the porous borders to steal animals from the people," Seseseko revealed.
The LCIII chairperson noted that several residents have already lost cattle, goats and sheep to the raids.
He appealed to security agencies to strengthen border patrols and improve monitoring at crossing points to curb the growing cases of livestock theft.
Seseseko also called for stronger cooperation between security forces and authorities in South Sudan to address porous border movements and ensure the safety of communities living along the border.
In response, the deputy resident district commissioner for Adjumani, Emmanuel Okware, acknowledged that security agencies are aware of the situation and said steps are being taken to address it.
"The UPDF has been conducting assessments on the ground to ascertain whether a detach can be established in the area, but the area lacks water, so in the meantime, the one in Bibia is supposed to rotate along the borders for monitoring as the security continues to get a permanent solution," Okware explained.
Porous borders often result in several challenges, such as refugee influx, security concerns, the spread of diseases and pressure on social services.