UPDF hails Fr Don Vittorio’s contribution to peace and development in Karamoja
Brig Gen Hyeroba described Fr Pastori as a visionary missionary whose work demonstrated that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace and security.
The late Reverend Father Don Vittorio Pastori while in Karamoja. ( Vatican News photo)
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The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Third Infantry Division, Brigadier General Michael Walaka Hyeroba, has commended the late Reverend Father Don Vittorio Pastori for his contribution to the spiritual and socio-economic transformation of Karamoja.
Brig Gen Hyeroba made the remarks on Wednesday during celebrations held in Moroto to mark 32 years since the death of Fr Pastori, popularly known as “Don Vittorione”, who died on September 2, 1994.
The commemorative event, organised by Africa Mission – Cooperation and Development (C&D), brought together religious and political leaders, security officials, local communities, youth and staff of the organisation at the Youth Centre Don Vittorio in Moroto Municipality.
Brig Gen Hyeroba described Fr Pastori as a visionary missionary whose work demonstrated that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace and security.
“We at The UPDF 3 Division are proud to be associated with C&D. When Don Vittorione came to Karamoja, this region was known for cattle raids and suffering. Gone are the days of cattle raids,” Brig Gen Hyeroba said.
He noted that the relative peace achieved in Karamoja through disarmament had created an opportunity for the region to pursue sustainable economic development.
The Division Commander challenged the youth to abandon violence and embrace vocational skills and other opportunities provided by development partners.
The Bishop of Moroto Diocese, Rt Rev Damiano Guzzetti, described Fr Pastori as a “commuter of charity between Italy and Africa” highlighting his commitment to missionary and humanitarian work in Uganda.
He added that since 1982, Africa Mission has drilled more than 500 wells in Karamoja, improving access to water for communities across the region.
The Moroto Resident District Commissioner, represented by Deputy RDC Mark Aol Musooka, commended C&D for its longstanding presence and contribution to the development of Karamoja.
“We thank Africa Mission-C&D for being a true friend of Uganda. While many NGOs come and go, C&D has stayed for over 50 years. The Government of Uganda recognises the legacy of Don Vittorione, a man who saw human dignity in every Karamojong,” the RDC said.
“Let us not vandalise boreholes. Let us send our children to their skills centres. This is the new Karamoja, not of guns, but of skills and water,” he said.
Moroto Municipality Mayor, Mark Sire, praised Fr Pastori for laying a foundation for development in Moroto and across Karamoja.
Sire urged the community to protect and build on the legacy left by the late missionary, while also promoting hygiene and sanitation in homes and communities.
He revealed that Moroto Municipality was considering naming a road after Fr Pastori in recognition of his contribution to the development of the area.
Fr Pastori founded the Youth Centre Don Vittorio, which pioneered youth skilling initiatives in Karamoja. He also supported vulnerable communities through water projects and agricultural training aimed at improving livelihoods and contributing to peace and stability.
The commemorations featured Holy Mass, the Uhuru Cup football tournament, cultural performances, a tailoring exhibition by young mothers and testimonies from former street children who benefited from the organisation’s programmes.
The event was attended by Bishop Guzzetti, Africa Mission Uganda Director Fr Egidio Tocalli, Italian volunteers from Piacenza and hundreds of youth and community members.