news 18 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Soroti Livestock Beneficiaries Warned Against Fund Diversion
Authorities in Soroti are closely monitoring 598 beneficiaries of a government livestock restocking program to ensure Shs5 million compensation per household is used exclusively for purchasing cattle. Officials have warned against any diversion of these funds, highlighting strict oversight measures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-warns-soroti-livestock-beneficiaries-against-diverting-restocking-funds-5501620
Beneficiaries of a national livestock restocking initiative in Soroti are under scrutiny, with officials issuing a stern warning against misusing the Shs5 million compensation allocated for purchasing cattle. The program aims to support households that have lost livestock due to past conflicts and raids, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups.
In total, 598 households across Soroti City and Soroti District are set to receive funds. These include female-headed households, child-headed families, individuals with disabilities, unemployed youth, former abductees, and the elderly. Each beneficiary household is slated to receive Shs5 million, specifically for the acquisition of three heifers and two bulls.
Soroti City has already disbursed funds to 256 out of 350 targeted beneficiaries, with the remaining expected to receive their compensation by the end of the month. Mr. Badru Ochengel, the program’s focal person and Assistant Deputy Town Clerk, assured that beneficiaries would be tracked, stating, “We have all the data and we shall follow beneficiaries wherever they will be. Just do the right thing.”
A dedicated monitoring team, including the Resident City Commissioner, the mayor, and the town clerk, will oversee the fund utilization. Soroti District has compensated 342 households so far, disbursing Shs1.7 billion out of Shs2.4 billion received for the first phase.
Concerns regarding corruption have surfaced, with Soroti City Resident City Commissioner John Michael Okurut reporting instances of extortion. One town agent was arrested and made to refund Shs4.5 million extorted from a beneficiary.
This restocking program is part of a larger Shs80 billion government initiative targeting the Teso, Acholi, and Lango sub-regions. The overall goal is to compensate 16,000 households, restore livelihoods, and boost economic recovery in communities heavily impacted by livestock losses over the years.