THE tribal clashes between the Alur, Lendu and Bahema in the Ituri region in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have resulted in the integration and settlement of the Congolese Alur among their tribesmates in the Ugandan district of Nebbi, reports Albert Ondoga.
According to a New Vision survey carried out in the town of Paidha, Nebbi district in West Nile region, most of the refugees who are Alur of DRC origin, have settled among the Ugandan Alur in large numbers.
Security sources said most of the refugees fled from the battle-hit areas of Ireti and Pandruma in Fataki area.
But they could not establish the exact number of the refugees in the area.
“It’s true these people have crossed into the side of our border in large numbers but we cannot get the exact number because most of them are staying with friends, relatives who are business people in the area and well-wishers,” a councillor said.
It was difficult to differentiate between the Congolese and Ugandan Alur since they speak the same language.
Most of the refugees are said to be involved in petty jobs like digging to earn a living as they wait for peace to return to their area.
Paidha officials said the refugees were staying in Nyondo ward, Oturugang and There-Agu.
Security sources said thousands of Congolese refugees fled to Bugoma, Butiaba, Mahagi Port, Dei and Bundibugyo district in western Uganda. Ends