news 18 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
EOC Directs Government to Protect Marginalized West Nile Minorities
The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has ordered the government to implement constitutional safeguards for marginalized ethnic groups in West Nile, citing systemic discrimination in education, employment, and governance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/eoc-orders-govt-on-marginalised-west-nile-minority-communities-5464700
The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has issued a directive to the Ugandan government to ensure constitutional protections for minority communities in the West Nile region, following a ruling on systemic discrimination. The EOC found that groups like the Nubian, Kebhu, and Lendu communities face significant barriers in accessing education, employment, land rights, and public services.
The ruling came after a public inquiry into complaints lodged by the Nubian community in Arua and leaders from the Kebhu community in Zombo District. A witness representing the Nubian community testified to enduring decades of political and social exclusion, lack of representation, and difficulties in securing jobs and promotions despite qualifications.
Commissioner Denise Tusiime ordered the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, along with other agencies, to formally recognize the Nubian community within 12 months. This includes integrating them into government records, policies, and administrative systems, and facilitating the establishment of a Nubian cultural institution. The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development was also instructed to form a task force within six months to address historical land dispossession.
Furthermore, authorities in Arua City are to reform governance and recruitment to ensure equitable representation for ethnic minorities. The National Identification and Registration Authority, Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, and ministries of Health and Education were directed to address language barriers and improve access to essential services and identification documents. The Kebhu community highlighted historical injustices, including denial of education and political exclusion due to their small population size.
Representatives from the affected communities expressed hope that the EOC’s intervention would lead to greater recognition and equal treatment under Ugandan law. The commission clarified that its ruling compels the state to implement existing constitutional rights rather than create new ones.