By Emmanuel Omoding
KATAKWI
A bush fire whose source is yet to be established has virtually destroyed 300 houses and property worth millions of shillings in the Parishes of Osep and Oedepus in Ngariam Sub County, Katakwi District.
On various days this week, a fire broke out and burned houses to ashes, causing damage to houses and property, although no one was injured.
Moses Iteit, the LC3 chairperson of Ngariam Sub County, stated that the parishes of Osep and Oedepus were recently flood-vacated, and that a stray fire is suspected to have been set by Karimojong warriors or area hunters.
Michael Opiok, LC 2 chairperson Osep Parish suspects that it is the wind that carried the stray fire or it could have been burnt by Karimojong, who are now living within grazing their animals.
He claims that Osep, which has a population of 1,689 and over 400 houses, requires government support in form of iron sheets for restoration in the area. He also urged the government to increase security and provide food in the area so that people may return for rehabilitation.
George Israel Odongo, a Ngariam local who witnessed the fire said it was beyond extinguishment hence damaging homes. He noted that the stray fire has resulted in double losses for households because food, clothing, silverware, and construction supplies such as grass were destroyed.
Odongo requests a government equalization grant, specifically for the purpose of providing iron sheets and food to those living in the sub counties neighboring Karamoja region who face similar challenges as those of Karamoja.
Geoffrey Omolo, the LC5 Katakwi District, said the district was unaware of the occurrence but advises people to avoid wasteful bush burning, particularly during the dry season.
He claimed that stray fires are becoming more common, citing the example of adjacent Nabilatuk, where a fire destroyed hundreds of homes.
