Free-roaming animals pose deadly risks on Pader roads during dry season

7 January 2026, 07:26

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Pader District is grappling with growing safety and economic challenges as animals roam freely during the dry season, which runs from early November to early April.

Local leaders warn that this longstanding practice is causing accidents, destroying crops, and exposing livestock to disease, theft, and other hazards.

LCIII Chairperson of Pajule Town Council, Mr. Okello Titto Brilliant, described the problem as widespread across areas including Pajule Town, Paiula, Porogali, Lapul, etc.

Animals do not only damage crops and fight among themselves but also create unsafe conditions for children and residents.

“Free-range animal movement is an outdated practice that must end,” Mr. Brilliant said, emphasising that owners are responsible for their livestock at all times.

The dry season drives animals to roam in search of food, forcing them onto roads and into private compounds.

Boda-boda rider Okwera Donald said that livestock sleeping on roads at night makes it difficult to maintain safe speeds.

“It is very dangerous at night; we cannot always ride slowly, especially during emergencies,” he explained, highlighting the daily risks riders face.

Oryema Johan Bosco, another Boda-boda rider also known as Adeg-Ani, noted that he has witnessed animals roaming on roads multiple times, particularly at night when visibility is poor.

He urged fellow riders to remain extremely cautious during the dry season.

Motorist Oketa Michael aka Mike, who drives along the Pader-Gulu Highway, reported that black cattle are especially difficult to see at night, which has led to several near collisions.

He described the situation as a serious challenge for all drivers, particularly during the dry season when animals roam more freely.

District Police Commander of Pader District, SP Jackson Bogere, confirmed that free-ranging animals are a leading cause of road accidents during the dry season.

He explained that negligence can lead to legal consequences, including confiscation or auctioning of livestock to compensate victims.

“Owners who allow their animals to roam freely are putting lives at risk and must be held accountable,” SP Bogere said, urging stricter enforcement and community cooperation.

LCIII Chairperson of Pukor Sub-County, Mr. Ojwini Richard, described the practice as a mindset issue that hampers development.

Crop destruction and livestock theft reduce farmers’ income, perpetuating poverty and limiting community progress.

He warned that unless the practice is addressed, it will continue to undermine safety, livelihoods, and development in the district.

Dr. Onyango Bosco, Assistant District Veterinary Officer of Pader District, explained that many livestock remain unvaccinated, making them vulnerable to diseases such as Black Quarter in cattle and African swine fever in pigs.

“Animals moving freely during the dry season are at high risk of disease, accidents, and theft,” Dr. Bosco said, noting that proper animal management is essential to prevent losses.

Mr. Kilama Fearless Wodacholi, LCIII Chairperson of Pader Town Council, said that while laws exist to prevent free-range grazing, enforcement is often slow.

“The law is there, but community support is needed to manage animals responsibly,” he noted, adding that roaming livestock also destroy crops and tree seedlings, affecting local development initiatives.

Kilama added that beyond road accidents and crop destruction, free-ranging animals hinder town planning, environmental initiatives, and economic growth.

Authorities advise road users to remain vigilant during the dry season, reducing speed, staying alert, and anticipating animals on any road.

In the event of an accident involving livestock, proper legal procedures should be followed to ensure compensation and avoid personal liability.

LCIII Chairperson of Pajule Town Council, Mr. Okello Titto Brilliant, concluded that free-range animal movement during the dry season is dangerous, unacceptable, and must be stopped.

“Animal owners, road users, and local leaders must work together to protect lives, property, and the future of our district,” he said, underscoring the need for collective action.