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A conflict over illegal grazing in Maruzi Ranch has escalated, resulting in the destruction of 11 gardens and injuries to several cattle. The clash between local farmers and migrant cattle herders—commonly referred to as Balaalo—prompted swift intervention by local leaders and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to ease tensions.

This incident occurred in Abongker Village, Tarugali Parish, Ibuje Sub-county in Apac District, where cattle belonging to a herder named Nzarubara were found grazing unlawfully and damaging crops. The situation reignited concerns around illegal occupation of public land by Balaalo, despite a 2023 directive from President Yoweri Museveni ordering the eviction of those who fail to meet legal requirements such as fencing and access to water sources.

Capt. Edrin Mawanda, spokesperson for the UPDF’s 5th Division, confirmed on Tuesday that calm had been restored following a joint visit by district and security leaders, including the Apac Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the 103 Battalion commanding officer, and local government representatives.

During the assessment, it was discovered that three cows had sustained injuries—panga cuts on their tails—allegedly inflicted by enraged farmers retaliating for crop destruction. A compromise was later reached, with the farmers agreeing to accept half the compensation they had initially demanded, acknowledging their own role in escalating the matter.

To defuse the situation, 37 impounded cattle were transported across the Kungu Ferry to Masindi Port, effectively removing the immediate cause of conflict. UPDF personnel have since been deployed to maintain order and prevent further incidents.

“The UPDF remains committed to protecting the lives and property of all Ugandans,” said Capt. Mawanda.

Background on the Balaalo Crackdown

The Maruzi Ranch standoff is part of a larger government campaign aimed at regulating illegal grazing and addressing land-related tensions in northern Uganda. In May 2023, President Museveni issued Executive Order No. 3, which targeted unlawful cattle grazing, charcoal burning, and cattle rustling in the Acholi, Lango, Teso, and West Nile sub-regions.

The directive required Balaalo herders to vacate public land unless they had proof of legal ownership, fenced enclosures, and access to independent water sources. Those on government ranches like Aswa and Maruzi without authorization were also ordered to leave.

The crackdown gained momentum in November 2023, when President Museveni issued an ultimatum through the Prime Minister, warning that non-compliant herders would face imprisonment and have their cattle confiscated. Enforcement resumed in May 2025 after a temporary pause due to a livestock disease outbreak. State Minister Dr. Kenneth Omona reinforced the directive with a two-week notice and authorized UPDF support to monitor compliance at key locations such as Karuma Bridge.

Government’s Justification

Authorities cited several reasons for the operation:

• Farmer Protection: Balaalo cattle had repeatedly destroyed local farms, threatening livelihoods and causing unrest.
• Rule of Law: The President accused some herders of indiscipline and being armed, posing a security risk.
• Environmental Preservation: The effort aligns with broader national goals to combat illegal land use, deforestation, and livestock theft.

A multi-agency task force—comprising police, RDCs, security officers, and veterinary personnel—has been tasked with implementing the executive order.

A National Agenda

President Museveni’s directive highlights a national push to restore order in land use, protect agricultural communities, and regulate nomadic grazing. With the UPDF’s continued support on the ground, the government is signaling its firm resolve to end the long-standing land-use conflicts linked to unregulated cattle herding in northern Uganda.