By Prosper Gibolo
The Bishop of Kotido Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu, has called on the Karamojong and the Turkana pastoralists to embrace peace, unity and peaceful coexistence amid renewed tensions over cattle raids and insecurity.
The recent wave of cattle raids and killings targeting Turkana pastoralists, who have been hosted in the districts of Kotido, Karenga, and Kaabong for the past four months, has further exposed the fragile relationship between the ethnic groups as they compete for increasingly scarce pasture and water.
The growing insecurity comes at a time when many households are struggling to cope with the effects of prolonged dry spells, which have affected food production, reduced pasture availability and intensified competition for the limited resources needed to sustain livestock.
Speaking during the confirmation of 125 catechumen on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Mary Mother of God Kopoth Chapel in Loyoro Parish in Kaabong district, Bishop Eibu condemned the looting of livestock belonging to Turkana pastoralists.
The prelate urged cattle rustlers and communities involved in cattle raids and revenge attacks to abandon violence and instead promote harmony among the neighbouring communities.
The Bishop reminded the congregation that the Karamojong and Turkana communities are neighbours who depend on one another and may, at different times, cross into each other’s territories in search of pasture and water.
The confirmed catechumen were draw from St. Joseph Bakita Leterwa, St. Charles Lokanayona, Sacred Heart of Jesus Toroi, St. Joseph Locerep, St. Peter Lochom and Mary Mother of God Kopoth chapels.
Some of the newly confirmed Christians, including Gift Napeyok, Ferenado Lolem and Lydia Longo, applauded the Bishop, parish priest and catechists for guiding them through their Christian formation and helping them establish a stronger relationship with Christ.
Meanwhile, the Parish Priest of Loyoro, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Lofembe, challenged the newly confirmed catechumen to become ambassadors of peace, unity and transformation in their respective communities, saying they have a responsibility to promote positive change in society.
He urged them to use the Christian values they have received to guide their daily decisions and interactions with others, particularly in resolving conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Fr. Lofembe called on parents and community leaders to support the young people in nurturing their faith, talents and leadership abilities so they can contribute meaningfully to community development..
