Huda Oleru Abason, Uganda’s Minister of State for Veteran Affairs, has urged residents of West Nile to sustain, consolidate, and actively participate in the annual Peace Day celebrations slated for April 12 in Yumbe District.
Under the theme “Consolidating the Peace and Security in West Nile Region for Social-Economic Transformation,” Oleru emphasized that the event aims to provide a platform for the government to account for progress in implementing the 2002 Peace Agreement while launching a comprehensive program to bolster socio-economic development in the region.
“I commend the people of West Nile for upholding peace and resolving never to return to the hardships of war. I also extend gratitude to regional leaders for their collaborative efforts in organizing this event,” Oleru stated.
The celebrations mark 23 years since the signing of the December 2002 Peace Agreement between the Ugandan government and the Uganda National Rescue Front II (UNRF II), a splinter group led by the late Maj. Gen. Ali Bamuze. The pact ended conflict in the Greater West Nile Region, paving the way for sustained stability. Key provisions included the disarmament and dissolution of UNRF II, alongside the demobilization and reintegration of ex-combatants into civilian life.
Oleru highlighted that the Peace Day will also serve as an opportunity for communities to reflect on past challenges, unite under the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s vision of wealth creation, and chart a shared future. Additionally, long-delayed payments to UNRF II ex-combatants, stalled due to budgetary constraints, will commence during the event.
The gathering is expected to draw hundreds of attendees, including cabinet ministers, local leaders, and senior Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officials. Oleru reassured that the government remains committed to systematically resolving outstanding issues affecting the region.
