A herdsman identified only as Alfred has died after being gored and trampled by a cow he was tending in Bulike village, Bulongo Sub-county, Luuka district.
Alfred, who was well-known in the area, was responsible for caring for about 50 head of cattle belonging to several farmers in Bulongo sub-county. In return for his services, the farmers compensated him with calves.
According to David Kiigo, a resident who witnessed the incident, Alfred had gone to give the cow water, and the situation initially appeared calm. He said the cow suddenly became restless and began jumping, with Alfred stepping back and watching it closely, but the animal grew more aggressive and charged at him.
Kiigo, who said he was working in his garden about 20 metres away, explained that despite attempts by two other farmers to scare the animal off, the cow deliberately targeted Alfred.
The animal reportedly rammed its horns into Alfred’s abdomen and then repeatedly trampled him. Alfred was rushed to Bulongo health centre III but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The area LC I chairperson, Paul Gabula, said Alfred had moved to the village about four years ago and had since earned a reputation as a skilled and dedicated herdsman.
Commonly referred to as “Mulalo”, a local term for herdsman, Gabula said many farmers trusted him with their livestock, which he tended diligently and without complaint.
Gabula noted that Alfred had accumulated four calves and cows of his own as compensation for his work. He added that little was known about Alfred’s background, though he often said he hailed from Kasese district and preferred a quiet life in Luuka.
He also credited Alfred with introducing silage feeding in the area, a practice that has since been adopted by several farmers as a reliable source of animal feed.
Busoga North police spokesperson Samson Lubega confirmed the incident, saying local leaders are working with the community to ensure Alfred receives a decent burial.
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