Uganda’s Second Deputy Prime Minister and veteran lawmaker for Adjumani West County, Gen Moses Ali, has renewed his call for the creation of a dedicated Ministry for the West Nile Region and the urgent compensation of war debt claimants who suffered during past insurgencies. Addressing journalists at his home in Abrichaku Village, Adjumani Town Council, the 86-year-old retired general said West Nile remains marginalised under the broader Ministry for Northern Uganda, which he argued is too wide in scope to address the region’s specific needs.
Gen Ali urged President Yoweri Museveni to establish a separate ministry to ensure services are brought closer to the people and that there is focused oversight on West Nile’s development priorities. He noted that other regions such as Teso, Karamoja, Luweero-Rwenzori, and Busoga already benefit from designated ministries or targeted development programmes, and West Nile deserves equal institutional recognition.
He also made a passionate appeal for government compensation of war veterans and the families of those who lost lives and property during violent conflicts, especially those affiliated with the former Uganda National Rescue Front. Highlighting that over 513 confirmed fighters died and more than 60 percent of surviving veterans have since passed away, Gen Ali questioned why West Nile has not been compensated like other regions such as Acholi, Lango, and Teso.
He acknowledged that while partial payments were made following a directive by President Museveni, the majority of veterans and their dependents have yet to receive any form of support. “Uganda owes a debt to the gallant sons and daughters of West Nile. Their sacrifices should not be forgotten,” he said.
Despite expressing disappointment over the government’s neglect, Gen Ali praised the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for key national achievements since it came to power in 1986. He cited economic growth from USD 3.9 billion in 1986 to USD 49.4 billion in 2023, increased electricity generation from 150 MW to 2,000 MW, expansion of tarmacked roads from 1,000 km to 7,000 km, life expectancy rising from 43 to 63 years, and an improved literacy rate of 75 percent.
He pointed to infrastructural developments in West Nile, such as the Kole–Gulu–Nebbi–Arua power line and the Atiak–Laropi road, as signs of progress, but stressed that these efforts fall short of what is needed to uplift the region.
“These are commendable achievements, but West Nile still requires tailored attention to fully thrive,” Gen Ali said.
His remarks come amid rising demands from historically underserved regions for greater equity and recognition, as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections.
