President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has unveiled a strategic plan to resolve the long-standing tensions between the Japadhola and Iteso communities in Tororo, proposing a fresh administrative structure centered on unity, fairness, and development.
During a high-level meeting at State House Entebbe attended by leaders from both communities, the President announced that Tororo Municipality would be elevated to city status and function as a neutral administrative entity. In addition, three new districts would be established to ensure equitable representation and governance for both ethnic groups.
“To resolve this matter, we have agreed that Tororo becomes a neutral city. Alongside it, we will create three districts: Mukuju, Mulanda, and a third whose name must be neutral and mutually agreed upon,” President Museveni stated.
He advised leaders from both sides to engage in calm, respectful dialogue over the naming of the new district and discouraged the use of divisive language or actions over territorial claims.
“Why fight over a name? What matters is bringing services closer to our people,” Museveni emphasized, drawing parallels from biblical teachings and personal history to promote wisdom and peaceful coexistence.
According to the proposed arrangement, the Iteso community would be granted Mukuju District and benefit from services provided by the new city of Tororo, while the Japadhola community would receive two new districts Mulanda and the yet-to-be-named district.
The President further called on the leaders to focus on service delivery and development instead of clinging to historical grievances. “The real issue is not ownership of land or towns—it’s about uplifting the lives of our people,” he said.
Vice President Jessica Alupo, who has played a key role in facilitating dialogue between the two communities, presented a detailed plan that both groups had recently agreed upon. The plan includes upgrading Kwapa and Nagongera town councils to municipality status and carving the new districts from existing administrative areas to enhance local governance.
She noted that the agreement represents a turning point, built on mutual understanding and a shared commitment to peace and equity.
Defense Minister Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth praised the Vice President’s mediation efforts, highlighting her role in helping both communities reach consensus.
Cultural leaders, including His Royal Highness Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor and Emorimor Papa Paul Sande Emolot, also attended the meeting, along with political, religious, and community figures. Their presence underscored the importance of the resolution and signaled broad support for the new administrative roadmap.
President Museveni concluded by urging both groups to uphold the spirit of compromise and prioritize national development. “Let us not allow a name to divide us when the goal should be unity and progress,” he said. “This is the time to move forward.”
The decision is expected to end years of deadlock and provide a framework for peaceful coexistence, with Tororo City serving as a shared center for governance and growth.