Former ADF rebels resettled in Bundibugyo. 36 former Allied Democratic Forces – ADF rebels in Bundibugyo District have received resettlement packages from the Amnesty Commission Uganda.
The package includes household items, agricultural tools and cash amounting to 263, 000 Shillings.
In 2002, the government enacted the Amnesty Act, under which rebels who denounce rebellion are given amnesty and are reintegrated into their communities without facing any charges. Since then over 27,000 rebels have renounced the rebellion.
According to Rt. Capt. Ronald Sekatawa, the western regional coordinator for the commission they have given out the packages to support the former rebels start a new life in the community.
He added that many more combatants are surrendering to the government as a result of the arrest of their leader Jamil Mukulu, disintegration in the rebel groups and the peace messages delivered to them Sekatawa appealed to the fighters still engaged in rebellion to surrender under the benefit of the commission before its mandate expires in May next year.
He asked those who have been resettled to cut off communication with their colleagues still in the bush.
Henry Basaliza Araali, the Demobilization and Resettlement Team Leader, said that the government wants to change the people’s perception of the former rebels being rehabilitated.
He adds that they have been skilling some of the former rebels to equip them with life-changing skills before they are integrated into communities.
Agnes Kabugho one of the former rebels says the resettlement package will help her venture into an income-generating activity at her home.
Kabugho says she lost her business after running away for fear of being arrested for conniving with the rebels.
John Basaliza hopes to start farming to adjust to civilian life. However, he appeals for additional financial resources to enable him to buy inputs since he has no alternative source of income.
Thungu Mereki from Karangura, in Bunyangabu District wants local leaders to support them start up SACCO’s.
Also, read; https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-57246001
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