Katakwi IDPs appeal to government for aid

Over 5000 former internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Angisa parish in Magoro sub-county, Katakwi district are demanding for support from the government.

The residents were displaced in 1960 and 1990 by Karamojong cattle rustlers and sought refuge in camps.

In 2007, the families that were displaced by the rustlers returned and started occupying their ancestral land.

Andrew Okurut, a resident of Angaro village said as much as they have reoccupied their land, there is need for the government to put up roads, schools and health centers so as to improve their livelihoods and accessibility to social services.

"People here have to trek more than 18km in order to access health services and this dilemma is affecting both expectant mothers who cannot get antenatal services and those with other ailments," he explained.

Kolostika Alupo, a resident of Apopong village told New Vision that they are in danger as they have to walk long distances to get antenatal services.

Narrating their ordeal Alupo said they walk 18 kilometers in order to access health services at Magoro Health Centre III which is situated at the sub-county headquarters.

"Our lives are in danger since we have little or no access to midwives. It is dangerous for us during delivery," she added.

Esther Amuge revealed that some people have now resorted to using local herbs for treating headache since they cannot access health services due to the distance of the health centre.

Charles Orukit, the LC1 chairperson Angaro village asked government to build a primary school for their children to study.

"Am wondering what kind of a generation Angisa is going to have if children do not attain their right to education" he said.

John Francis Emuron, the chairperson Magoro resettlement committee emphasised on the need for the government to work on the 18km road connecting Angisa parish to Magoro sub-county headquarters.

"Worst of all, these mothers deliver from homes because it is difficult for them to access health facilities. Some of the challenges are poor road network and long distance," Emuron revealed.

James Alemu Emongot, the LC3 Magoro sub-county confirmed to New Vision that the people of Angisa are in dire need of social amenities.

Asked why Angisa parish does not have a primary school yet other parishes have, Alemu said the four classroom blocks meant for Angisa Primary School were given to Omasia Primary School because of the standing conflict between the community and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

He appealed to the Office of the President to expedite the process of resolving the Angisa land conflict.