President Museveni Hails Return of Peace and Development in Kotido: “When Guns Are Put Down, Prosperity Follows”

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Maama Janet Museveni visited Kotido District today, where the President commended the people of Karamoja for embracing peace and working towards development. Reflecting on the region’s past, President Museveni recalled discussions with leaders who once argued that every household should keep guns for protection because of persistent insecurity. “I told them that keeping guns everywhere is like having fire in the house—it is useful in the Ekemo (fireplace) for cooking, but if it spreads to the bed, it burns the house,” he said. “Even in Ankole, we have where we keep milk pots; likewise, guns must stay in the armoury of the armed forces.” The President reaffirmed his long-standing message of peace through disarmament, saying, “I told them, give me the guns, and I will defend you against the Turkana and others. Now you can see the results—Ekisil (peace) has returned.” Museveni emphasized that peace has become the foundation for the ongoing transformation in Karamoja. He cited several major projects achieved because of restored stability, including the extension of electricity, the construction of dams such as Sinat Valley (4.4 billion litres) and Kaoyagorok, and the paving of over 180 kilometres of roads. “These developments are a clear sign that when people put down the guns and pick up work, prosperity follows,” he said. “That is the NRM way—peace, development, and transformation for all.” As he concluded his address, President Museveni expressed his appreciation to the people of Kotido for their commitment to peace and progress, saying warmly, “Arakara noi, Kotido!” — thank you very much, Kotido. The President’s message underscored the government’s continued commitment to ensuring lasting peace, security, and socio-economic transformation across the Karamoja sub-region.