By KT Reporter
A herdsman identified only as Alfred has been died after being trampled by a cow he was rearing in Bulike village, Bulongo Sub-county, Luuka District. Alfred was a well-known herdsman in the area, responsible for tending to about 50 head of cattle belonging to different farmers in Bulongo Sub-county.
In return for his labour, the owners compensated him with calves. According to a resident, David Kiigo, who witnessed the incident, Alfred had gone to give the cow drinking water and the situation initially appeared calm. However, the animal suddenly became restless and began jumping repeatedly.
Sensing danger, Alfred stepped back while closely observing the cow. Kiigo, who said he was in his garden about 20 metres away, explained that the animal grew increasingly hostile and charged at Alfred. He added that two other farmers attempted to scare the cow away, but it deliberately targeted Alfred. The cow rammed its horns into Alfred’s stomach before repeatedly trampling him.
Kiigo said Alfred became unresponsive shortly after the attack and was pronounced dead on arrival at Bulongo Health Centre III. The area L.C.1 chairperson, Paul Gabula, said Alfred had relocated to the village about four years ago and was known for his exceptional skills in caring for livestock. Commonly referred to as “Mulalo,” meaning herdsman, Gabula said many farmers entrusted him with their cattle, which he tended diligently and without complaint.
Gabula noted that Alfred had accumulated four calves and cows of his own as rewards from the farmers he served. He added that little was known about Alfred’s background, although he often said he originated from Kasese District and preferred a quiet life in Luuka. He also credited Alfred with introducing the practice of silage feeding in the area, a technique that other farmers have since adopted as a reliable source of animal feed. Gabula said this expertise would be greatly missed.
Meanwhile, the Busoga North police spokesperson, Samson Lubega, confirmed the incident, noting that local leaders are coordinating with community members to ensure Alfred receives a decent burial. Lubega urged farmers to put measures in place to properly manage and monitor their animals, particularly to detect signs of aggression or unusual behaviour, warning that such vigilance can help prevent similar incidents in the future.
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