Women’s caucus chairperson takes firm stand against the sale of ‘guu’

13 November 2024, 11:18 am

By Otim Moses Arapmoi

The Chairperson of the Lamwo Women’s Caucus, Ms Joyce Oyella, has strongly condemned individuals involved in selling and transporting lethal alcohol, locally known as ‘guu,’ which is reported to be a major contributor to cross-border conflicts between Uganda and South Sudan.

Ms Oyella, who also serves as the Female Councillor for Palabek Gem and Palabek Abera sub-counties in Lamwo district, spoke on Monday, 11 November 2024, at the Apiriti border point in Madi Opei sub-county during a dialogue between communities from Madi Opei sub-county and their neighbours from Tseretenya, Ikotos county in South Sudan, aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence.

The dialogue was organised by the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) under the Cross-Border Opportunities for Migration, Peace, and Sustenance (COMPASS) Project.

According to Hon. Oyella, cattle raiders from South Sudan who terrorise the district use this alcohol to gain courage before crossing the border to steal livestock. She also noted that ‘guu’ has caused impotence in men and has led to numerous deaths in both Uganda and South Sudan.

She warned those involved in the illicit trade to seek alternative livelihoods instead of engaging in activities that threaten peace.

She also called for the deployment of female immigration officers at checkpoints to ensure that female entrepreneurs are treated with dignity.