By Eumu Emmanuel
Hon. Betty Amongi, Uganda’s Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, has been appointed to oversee the 2024 East Africa Ateker Festival, a high-profile cultural event expected to attract multiple Heads of State from the region. In her capacity as chairperson of the organizing committee, Hon. Amongi provided an update on the festival’s arrangements and progress to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during a meeting at State House, Entebbe, on Thursday.
The festival is scheduled to commence on November 27th to 29th in Soroti City and will run for three days. Among the leaders who have confirmed their attendance are President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, President Dr. William Samoei Ruto of Kenya, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and President Taye Atske Selassie of Ethiopia.
The opening day promises a flurry of activities, including the arrival of delegates, an elders’ dialogue, youth and women’s forums, and tree planting ceremonies. The second day will feature public assemblies, the arrival of President Museveni, an exhibition tour, a visit to the cultural village, the official opening ceremony, and a cultural night showcasing the rich traditions of the Ateker people.
Uganda was chosen to host the 2024 edition of the Ateker Tobonguu Lore (Come Back Home) Festival, a cultural event that unites the Ateker community. This community comprises the Karamojong and Iteso of Uganda and Kenya, the Turkana of Kenya, the Toposa of South Sudan, and the Nyangatom of Ethiopia. The Ateker people share a deep-rooted heritage with common customs, language, lifestyle, and ancestry.
The festival’s objectives include fostering cultural exchange, strengthening unity among the Ateker communities, and showcasing their rich traditions to a wider audience. The event will highlight the unique bond among these groups and celebrate their shared history and identity. The four-day gathering is expected to not only enhance regional cooperation but also promote tourism and cross-cultural appreciation.