Public urged to restore traditional grazing grounds, plant trees

12 January 2026, 7:01 am

By Geoffrey Okwong

The public has been encouraged to restore traditional grazing grounds to curb the increasing number of animals roaming streets, particularly in urban centers across the district.

Fearless Kilama Wodacholi, the LC III Chairperson for Pader Town Council, on Wednesday called on residents—especially livestock owners—to take responsibility for their animals and stop allowing them to roam freely.

Kilama warned that reckless animal management could destroy the grasses and trees in the environment and also jeopardize government plans to restock households in the Acholi sub-region. He noted that the government intends to provide five heads of cattle per household, but such initiatives could be withdrawn if communities continue to leave animals unattended.

He added that free-ranging animals have caused significant destruction to tree species planted at the town council grounds. Several trees planted under environmental greening initiatives have been destroyed by animals roaming the town.

According to Kilama, the town council had resolved in 2020 to plant three million trees by 2030. However, the project has stalled due to prolonged court cases he had been battling that have taken nearly three years, slowing down council operations.

He further explained that the legal challenges delayed the passing of bylaws that would have helped regulate livestock ownership and penalize irresponsible animal owners.

As a temporary solution, Kilama said the council is considering fencing off the council yard with barbed wire to prevent illegal entry by roaming animals.

He also encouraged residents to continue planting trees, adding that once funds are available, the council plans to support communities by providing free seedlings.

Kilama emphasizes that greening the environment needs combined efforts not necessarily the leaders.