K’jong get ploughs

By Nathan EtenguTHE Government has began handing over ox-ploughs, chains and maize grain to the Karimojong who voluntarily surrendered their guns in the ongoing disarmament programme.The first set of ox-ploughs and chains were handed over to the beneficiaries by the Minister for General Duties in the Prime Minister’s office, Professor Mondo Kagonyera, in two separate ceremonies held in Moroto town and Nakapiripirit district headquarters.Men smiled and women ululated as they received the ox-ploughs. One housewife decided to carry the ox-plough on her head, saying the farm implement was more beneficial to her than the gun that used to keep her husband away from home.Kagonyera, who was accompanied by state ministers, Christine Aporu Okol and Peter Lokeris, advised the Karimojong to make use of the ox-ploughs so that they become the best crop producers in the country.“These ploughs are better than the guns you have been using to kill yourselves and your neighbours, Kagonyera told the recipients at Nakapiripirit district headquarters.“I appeal to you to use the ploughs that you have been given to be the best producers in the country,” he said.A consignment of 168 ploughs were delivered for distribution to the Karimojong warriors who handed in their guns to the Government under the voluntary disarmament programme.More ploughs and maize grain will be delivered in another consignment expected soon.