By Richard Onapatum
SERERE: The head of the Iteso Cultural Union, Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Etomeileng, has called on the Iteso community to focus on cattle keeping as a path to wealth. Speaking on Saturday, June 1, 2024, during an inspiring Alumni Exhibition at the Serere Country Resort, Emorimor highlighted the economic benefits of cattle rearing.
The event, hosted by Entrepreneurial Leadership Development (ELD) Executive Director John Kokas Oriokot, gathered successful entrepreneurs from Washington, D.C., local business leaders, and community stakeholders to share their experiences and insights on entrepreneurship and its role in driving economic growth and development.
Emorimor’s speech, delivered by the Iteso Cultural Union Deputy Minister of Information and National Guidance Ochoggia Abdallah, emphasized prosperity through animal rearing. “Ebala Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot ‘Kipit kobar,’” said Abdallah, translating to “rear an animal and be wealthy,” especially cattle, which the Iteso are traditionally known for.
He underscored that the leadership of HRH Papa Paul Sande Etomeileng Emolot is committed to changing the mindset of his subjects through agriculture, particularly cattle keeping.
The panel discussion featured distinguished entrepreneurs and business leaders who shared their insights on entrepreneurship and its impact on economic growth. Among them, Dr. Peter Emmanuel Eriaku, Director of Animal Resources, provided expert advice on land protection and effective use for agricultural development, particularly animal rearing.
The event also highlighted the benefits of cooperative societies, showcasing opportunities for farmers to organize and rear sheep, goats, and cattle. Hon. Obilan, Director of AMDEF, presented insights on livestock rearing practices from the Arab world. Additionally, international experts from Washington shared their knowledge on cooperative societies in the US and globally.
Hon. Obilan emphasized the importance of leadership in Teso in enriching discussions on entrepreneurship and its role in economic development. He added that the unique perspectives and experiences of local leaders would greatly benefit aspiring entrepreneurs.
Certificates of excellence were awarded to model farmers from Teso and Busoga, recognizing their contributions to agricultural development and encouraging others to follow suit.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among attendees to embrace cattle keeping and other agricultural practices as viable pathways to economic prosperity.