The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has expelled a group of nomadic pastoralists, identified as Mbomboro tribesmen — also known as Balaalo — from the West Nile sub-region.
The herdsmen, believed to have come from Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, were reportedly in possession of more than 20,000 head of cattle.
According to security sources, the eviction was part of ongoing operations to address illegal grazing, cross-border pastoral incursions, and land disputes in northern Uganda. The move is aimed at restoring order, protecting local communities, and safeguarding the environment from overgrazing.
Authorities have not yet confirmed where the herdsmen and their livestock will be relocated, but officials insist that Uganda will not allow uncontrolled pastoral settlement that threatens local livelihoods.
The UPDF has in recent years stepped up efforts to regulate nomadic movements across Uganda’s borders, citing security concerns, resource competition, and community conflicts.
