NWOYA:
In the Acholi sub-region of Uganda, the ongoing national population and housing census have faced challenges as some individuals have resisted participation, resulting in a series of arrests. The latest incidents highlight the hurdles encountered by enumerators in ensuring complete engagement in this critical process.
On Monday, three individuals were apprehended for allegedly refusing to partake in the census. Among them is Jonani Teriyiko, 44 years old, residing in Pudyek village within Anaka Town Council, Nwoya district. Teriyiko was picked up after reportedly rejecting enumeration, as stated by DPC Richard Anyama.
Additionally, two more individuals were detained: Apio Alice, 32 years old, from Aloyi Central village in Patongo sub-county, and Opio Yasinto, 40 years old, from Apano village in Patongo sub-county, both in Agago district. Their refusal to participate stemmed from various reasons, with Apio citing concerns of domestic violence and Opio expressing a preference for herding cattle over census involvement.
Confirming the arrests, Waigo James, the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department at Patongo Central Police Station, acknowledged the detention of Apio and Opio.
These arrests bring the total to nine across the Lango and Acholi sub-regions for refusing participation in the census. Such actions carry potential legal consequences, including a jail term of up to six months, a fine of 600,000 Ugandan Shillings, or both.
The resistance to census enumeration underscores the significance of community awareness and cooperation in the census process. Accurate population and housing data are vital for informed decision-making, resource allocation, and equitable development planning at both local and national levels.
Efforts to address resistance and ensure comprehensive participation in the census continue, emphasizing the importance of this nationwide endeavor in shaping Uganda’s future.
The resistance encountered during the national population and housing census in the Acholi sub-region of Uganda highlights the challenges faced by enumerators in ensuring full participation. Despite efforts to encourage involvement, some individuals have refused to be counted, resulting in arrests and potential legal consequences.
The incidents involving individuals such as Jonani Teriyiko, Apio Alice, and Opio Yasinto underscore the diverse reasons behind refusal to participate, ranging from concerns about domestic violence to personal preferences for other activities.
However, it is essential to recognize the importance of census data in informed decision-making, resource allocation, and development planning at both local and national levels. Accurate population and housing data are crucial for equitable distribution of resources and effective governance.
Efforts to address resistance and promote comprehensive participation in the census must continue, emphasizing community awareness and cooperation. Only through collective engagement can Uganda obtain the accurate data needed to shape its future effectively.