By Steven Enatu.
Calvin Echodu, the Soroti City West aspirant for the MP position, has called for planned prosperity as a key strategy for achieving economic success in the Teso region. Speaking at a conference in Soroti City, which brought together local political leaders, clergy, and members of the business community, Echodu emphasized the importance of smaller families and better planning for a sustainable future.
“If you have five children, those are your limitations. We must learn to control our population to create a sustainable future,” Echodu stated. He underscored the economic challenges imposed by large families, suggesting that managing population growth is essential for overcoming poverty.
The event, moderated by Pascal Amuriat and Pastor Alex Obale, was organized by the Men Plus 1 Revolutionary Poverty Crusade, a group focused on addressing poverty in Teso. Echodu highlighted several challenges the region faces, including inadequate education, healthcare, and environmental issues, all of which hinder wealth creation. He pointed out that, “It’s unlikely for a person in Teso to be rich due to the current economic situation,” urging attendees to adopt a “resilient mentality of success.”
Drawing comparisons to China, Echodu illustrated that a large population does not necessarily lead to prosperity. “Despite its vast population and immense wealth, half of China’s citizens live in poverty. This shows that having a large population does not equate to economic success,” he stressed.
Echodu also called for a return to the values of Teso’s forefathers, who believed that unity was key to economic development and prosperity. “Our ancestors knew how to support each other. They united through cooperatives, ranches, communal farms, and symbiotic businesses,” he added. He urged the Iteso to revive the cattle economy, which he described as resilient and not dependent on the weather, guaranteeing income year-round.
Peter Ojur, who is aspiring for the position of Mayor of Soroti, delivered a keynote speech reflecting on the historical strengths of Teso’s cattle economy and lamented its decline. Ojur tipped attendees on the importance of fostering a culture of saving for long-term investments, citing Nairobi’s collective savings model as an example. He criticized the current political climate, stating that poverty can only be eradicated through informed and exposed leadership, “not comedians and hecklers, the majority of whom we have today.”
Peter Edeku Edopu, a lawyer and aspiring MP for Dakabela County, stressed that although no one desires poverty, circumstances often determine one’s fate. He called on men in Teso to initiate businesses that support community resilience and provide mutual benefits.
Solomon Osia, another lawyer and aspiring MP for Toroma County, urged Teso’s residents to move away from a mindset of lamentation and instead work collaboratively. “Our politics is not for love; it’s for survival. If you want to represent the people, don’t be the one who plucks off the feathers,” he said, referencing an anecdote about neglecting essential needs for superficial gains.
Osborne Omoding, founder of the Men Plus 1 Revolutionary Poverty Crusade, concluded the conference by emphasizing the group’s mission to inspire men to embrace their roles as leaders within their families and communities. He reiterated that poverty is a global challenge that requires active engagement from all men in Teso.
The discussion was well received, with many agreeing that unity, responsible family planning, and revived economic models like the cattle economy are key to creating a prosperous future for the region.
