By Enatu Steven
The Prime Minister of the Iteso community, Andrew Ochole, has called on the Iteso to embrace and support two significant cultural events set to be hosted by the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU).
The first event is the 2nd coronation anniversary of His Highness Paul Sande Emolot Etomaileng, the Paramount Chief of the Iteso, scheduled for October 22, 2024, at Katakwi Boma Grounds.
According to Ochole, Katakwi was chosen as the venue because it is a historically significant location for the Iteso, marking their ancestral arrival. He emphasized that this celebration will bless the subsequent event.
“This coronation anniversary is not just a celebration of leadership, but a reconnection to our roots. Katakwi was chosen because it symbolizes the arrival of the Iteso, making it the perfect place to honor our heritage,” Ochole said.
The second event, a much-anticipated Ateker Reunion Festival, will follow in November. This annual gathering unites Ateker communities from Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
It includes the Karamojong, the Iteso from Uganda and Kenya, the Turkana of Kenya, the Toposa of South Sudan, the Nyangatom of Ethiopia, and the Maasai of Tanzania. This year, for the first time, Uganda will host the festival.
“Ateker Cultural Festival takes place once a year, rotating between Kenya, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Uganda, though Uganda has never hosted it before,” Ochole stated.
The festival, which will be held at Soroti Sports Grounds from November 27th to 29th, aims to promote peace, foster unity, and explore economic opportunities within the Ateker community.
Ochole expressed optimism about the festival’s potential to strengthen bonds among the various Ateker tribes.
“This is an opportunity to strengthen our cultural values and principles while learning from our brothers and sisters from across borders,” Ochole remarked.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to grace the festival as the guest of honor on November 27th.
Ochole has urged local clan and religious leaders to warmly welcome the visitors, ensuring the event’s success as a celebration of unity and shared heritage.
“This year’s festival is not just about coming together it’s about consolidating peace, building teams, and celebrating unity, while also exploring economic opportunities that will benefit the entire Ateker community,” Ochole said. The he revealed during the press conference today and City Mall in Bugoolobi, Kampala.