Soroti, Uganda | President Yoweri Museveni has announced a major change to the long-running cattle compensation program, replacing cash payouts with a Restocking and Rehabilitation approach to address historical livestock losses in northern and eastern Uganda.
The President made the announcement while meeting leaders from the Teso sub-region at Soroti University, saying the new strategy will prioritize distributing live cattle to affected households instead of disbursing cash.
He explained that giving five cows per household could be the baseline, ensuring fairer distribution, and noted that 28,000 individuals who have already received large payouts will not benefit under the new plan.
Museveni directed leaders to form a committee, led by Vice President Jessica Alupo and the Ministry of Teso Affairs, including elders, youth, women, and political leaders, to harmonize a formula for cattle distribution.
He gave them one month to consult widely before the government begins budgeting for the new system.
Deputy Attorney General Jackson Kafuuzi presented an update on the program in Parliament, revealing that as of June 30, 2025, UGX 506.7 billion is still needed to settle outstanding claims.
Since 2003, 28,281 claimants have received UGX 158.3 billion, with thousands still unpaid across Acholi, Lango, and Teso regions.
Katakwi Resident District Commissioner Stephen Ilemukorit said the delays have made the program politically sensitive, with opposition politicians using compensation frustrations during elections.
Some leaders, including NRM elder Acham Teddy and MP Bosco Okiror, accused the Ministry of Justice of mismanagement and lack of transparency, citing corruption and exclusion of local leaders from the payment chain.
Many beneficiaries expressed dissatisfaction with partial payments. Orokode Joseph Joe from Ngora said he received UGX 93 million while others received far less.
Ilado Immaculate of Kalaki claimed 130 animals but was compensated for fewer than 10 cows.
Oluka John Michael from Kagwara said he received only seven of his 44 cows and accused banks of withholding detailed statements.
Vice President Jessica Alupo praised the President’s guidance and assured that consultations will start immediately to create a fair and transparent allocation formula.
By focusing on livestock restocking, the government hopes to rebuild the economic base of war-affected communities while avoiding the bureaucracy, disputes, and fraud that have plagued cash payouts for decades.