As the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) prepares to embark on the landmark construction of its long-awaited cultural palace in Soroti City, a strong wave of technical and administrative support has emerged from the city’s technocrats, marking a rare display of unity and commitment to cultural preservation in eastern Uganda.
On Thursday, June 5, a team of Soroti City technocrats led by the City Physical Planner, Mr. Samuel Otati, paid a pivotal visit to the proposed palace construction site in Soroti.
The site inspection, which precedes the official groundbreaking ceremony, was a momentous occasion signifying a collaborative stride between the ICU and local government.
“We are here to visit the site and verify the building plans as we raise the green flag towards the construction process,” said Mr. Otati. He confirmed that all the necessary technical and legal prerequisites had been fulfilled by the ICU, including a valid land title registered in the institution’s name, complete architectural drawings, Uganda Revenue Authority clearance, and a construction permit duly approved by the City Clerk.
Otati commended the ICU for its thoroughness, stating, “All technical requirements have been met, and we are impressed by their total commitment. This is a shining example of what institutional preparedness looks like.”
He added that Soroti City is ready to provide ongoing support throughout the construction process. “We are committed to supporting Iteso Cultural Union to ensure that this beautiful palace becomes a reality. As fellow subjects of Papa Emorimor, we are united with him in this noble cause.”
The Soroti technocrats are now working closely with ICU leaders, reviewing infrastructure blueprints, and advising on compliance with municipal building codes and environmental regulations. Behind the scenes, a dedicated task force of city engineers, land surveyors, environmental officers, and planners is operating with urgency to fast-track approvals and oversee technical conformity throughout the construction process.
In a show of political and financial support, the government has allocated Shs. 3 billion in the 2024–2025 financial year to kickstart construction of the palace. The funds, according to officials, will cover foundational works, preliminary structures, and basic facilities.
Stephen Ojacor, ICU’s Deputy Minister for Information, hailed the move, stating, “The institution needs Shs. 52 billion to complete the palace, but the Shs. 3 billion government funding will help set the foundation. We are grateful to the government of Uganda for supporting this vision.”
Ojacor also revealed that the government will provide Shs. 250 million annually in subsequent financial years. He emphasized that the ICU leadership is working hand-in-hand with the Soroti City Council to maintain compliance and transparency at all stages.
The ICU is already planning major fundraising drives, as they seek to raise the balance of the funds through community and diaspora engagement. Prime Minister Andrew Ocole is leading the charge for resource mobilization, calling on all Iteso people and well-wishers to contribute.
“We are soon rolling out resource mobilization activities as we usher in the groundbreaking. We are determined to construct this palace, and we thank all those behind the process,” Ocole stated.
Also at the forefront is Bishop Bernard Ebiau, the ICU’s Minister for Religious Affairs, who has taken an active role in coordinating both spiritual and financial support for the project.
The palace, once completed, is expected to serve as the administrative and cultural nerve center for the Iteso community. It will host traditional ceremonies, cultural exhibitions, and leadership functions under the stewardship of Papa Emorimor, the revered cultural head of the Iteso people.
As the project gains momentum, the cooperation between Soroti City technocrats and ICU leadership stands as a testament to what can be achieved when tradition, governance, and technical expertise converge for a shared vision.