By Philip Opio
SERERE — Leaders in Serere District have called for strict adherence to government guidelines in the selection of beneficiaries for the ongoing restocking program in the Teso sub-region.
The appeal was made amid growing concerns that some leaders may influence the process unfairly, denying vulnerable households the opportunity to benefit from the government initiative.
John Esadu, the LC3 Chairperson of Kyere Sub-county, emphasized the need for Parish Development Committees (PDCs) to work closely with local leaders in identifying rightful beneficiaries.
“It is important for the Parish Development Committee to cooperate with local leaders so that the right categories of people benefit from this program,” Esadu said.
He stressed that priority should be given to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, widows, and disadvantaged households during the first phase of implementation.
Esadu further warned against politicizing government programs, accusing some political actors of undermining initiatives meant to uplift communities.
“It has been noticed that some political leaders continue to decampaign government programs that are intended to support and compensate communities,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Bernard Odikor, the LC3 Chairperson of Kagwara Town Council, urged government to speed up the implementation process to allow beneficiaries adequate time to plan for the support.
“There is a need for government to fast-track the restocking program so that beneficiaries can prepare and utilize the support effectively,” Odikor said.
On his part, Serere District Chairperson Stephen Ochola welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step toward helping communities recover from the effects of past insurgencies and cattle raids that left many families impoverished.
“This program will help many households recover from the losses suffered during insurgencies and cattle thefts that pushed families into poverty,” Ochola said.
The government’s restocking program is part of broader efforts to rebuild livelihoods and improve household incomes in Teso and other affected regions through support in livestock and agricultural production.
Local leaders in Serere have now called for transparency, fairness, and accountability to ensure that the program reaches the people most in need.
