Gulu’s former abductees appeal for urgent intervention

2 October 2026, 12:04 pm

By. Emmanuel Mwaka

Over four thousand former abductees in Gulu District are calling on the government and humanitarian partners for urgent intervention to address severe reintegration hurdles, including ongoing land disputes and social stigma.

Speaking through their umbrella organization, Can Pe Ciko Abductees Association, the returnees say years after escaping captivity, thousands still lack basic livelihood support.

Mr. Loremoi Docobella, the group’s chairperson stated that members have received virtually no direct support from the central government since their return.

He added that there are 4,736 returnees across Gulu District and an estimated over 3,000 individuals never returned from captivity.

To help ease the group’s agricultural burden, the Gulu District Woman Member of Parliament, Honorable Ayoo Phoebe Obol, handed over an ox-plough to the Patiko branch to boost their farm production.

Confirming the support, Hon. Ayoo emphasized her continued commitment to vulnerable groups across the district, noting that similar assistance like milling machines was previously delivered to returnee groups in Bungatira , Palaro Sub-counties. She also pledged to provide an additional pair of oxen in the near future to give the Patiko group two full pairs for draft power.

While the leadership of Can Pe Ciko Abductees Association expressed gratitude for the MP’s intervention, they stressed that local donations alone cannot solve their systemic challenges. They are calling for a comprehensive, policy-driven response from relevant government ministries and international development partners to secure land rights, offer mental health support, and establish sustainable economic empowerment programs for all returnees.