Shs 80 Billion Livestock Revitalization Program for Teso, Lango, and Acholi

The Ugandan government is set to invest Shs 80 billion in a groundbreaking initiative to restock livestock in the Teso, Lango, and Acholi subregions for the financial year 2026/2027. This major step is designed to restore the cattle population that was decimated over the past three decades of conflict and insurgency. Vice President Jessica Alupo, in a press briefing on December 26, 2025, confirmed the government’s commitment to providing five cows to each household across these regions, a much-needed measure for economic recovery.

Alupo, who is also the elected Member of Parliament for Katakwi District, emphasized that the program will begin as soon as the next financial year, with resources being evenly distributed across the affected regions. She further announced that Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) in these areas have already received instructions to begin identifying eligible beneficiaries who will receive the cows.

The Vice President’s announcement comes as part of a larger government strategy to rebuild the livestock industry, which has been severely damaged by years of violence and instability. Alupo assured the public that the government intends to allocate additional resources in future years to ensure the success and sustainability of the initiative.

Alupo also encouraged local leaders to actively engage with their communities and work closely with CAOs to facilitate the distribution process. She called on the people of Teso, Lango, and Acholi to approach this program with unity and cooperation, urging political candidates to foster peaceful and inclusive campaigns as the nation heads into elections.

This new cattle rehabilitation initiative was first proposed by President Museveni during a meeting with Teso leaders in August 2025. The proposal came as a response to widespread dissatisfaction with the existing cattle compensation program, which had been limited in scope and benefit. The new plan aims to ensure that every household in the affected areas receives two to five cows, marking a significant shift towards broader inclusivity.

To implement this vision, President Museveni appointed Vice President Alupo to oversee a ten-member committee tasked with consulting local leaders and stakeholders. The committee spent two weeks gathering input from over 13 different groups across the region, culminating in a report submitted to the President in mid-September. This report formed the basis for the government’s decision to move forward with the restocking initiative.

The program is expected to bring long-term economic benefits to the people of Teso, Lango, and Acholi, not only by revitalizing the livestock sector but also by promoting peace and unity among communities. With a strong focus on transparency, the government is hopeful that the initiative will help restore livelihoods and provide a more sustainable future for the region.

With this historic program, the government is reaffirming its commitment to the development of Uganda’s rural communities, offering a fresh start to those who have suffered most from decades of hardship. The program signals a renewed focus on unity, stability, and economic growth in the country’s northern and eastern regions.