By KT Reporter
Preparations have kicked off in Arua City for the commemoration of war massacres that affected several parts of the West Nile region, with survivors and activists calling for remembrance, justice, and government compensation for victims. The commemoration will focus on multiple massacre sites across the region, including Ombaci Mission, Oraba in Koboko, Yumbe, Odramacaku near the Arua–DRC border, Muni area, Euata, Ringili, Kuluva, Kubala, Omugo in Terego, Rhino Camp in Madi Okollo, as well as sites in Moyo, Obongi, Pakwach, and Nebbi districts.
At the center of the remembrance is the Ombaci Mission, where more than 850 civilians are reported to have been killed on June 24, 1981, after taking refuge at the Comboni Missionaries’ residence. The site has since become one of the most significant historical memorial locations in the region. Other documented tragedies include Oraba in Koboko District, where over 500 people are believed to have been killed, and Yumbe District, where more than 1,000 deaths were reportedly recorded during the same conflict period.
According to research compiled by West Nile Compensation Advocacy Network, more than 200,000 war victims from West Nile—including those affected by later insurgencies—have been documented in ongoing compensation claims. The organisation’s Executive Director, Richard Andama, said preparations are underway across districts for the 45th anniversary commemoration scheduled for June 18–24, 2026.
He said the event is expected to be presided over by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and will be held at St. Joseph’s College Ombaci under the theme: “45 years on: celebrating fallen life, healing the living, fostering peace, and demanding justice.” Andama said a budget of Shillings 500 million has been approved for the week-long programme, which will include sports competitions, conferences, a peace run, and community clean-up activities.
Survivors say the commemoration is also intended to push the government to address long-standing grievances. Veronika Eyotaru, a survivor of the Ombaci massacre and member of the organizing committee, said survivors want the President to witness firsthand the impact of the past atrocities and hear their concerns directly.
Meanwhile, Alex Matua said the commemoration will help communities reflect on their painful history, renew calls for compensation, and promote lasting peace. He said victims have waited for decades for government action despite repeated promises of compensation since 2006.
Organisers say the anniversary is not only about remembrance, but also about healing, accountability, and reviving long-standing demands for justice for war-affected communities across the West Nile.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
