By Our Reporter
In a significant gesture of cultural preservation and community unity, the Creation ambassadors of Uganda have injected one million Ugandan Shillings into the upcoming Ecomai Festival.
This vibrant cultural event, organized by the Iteso Cultural Union, aims to showcase and preserve the rich culinary traditions of the Iteso people.
The donation, made on Wednesday morning, was handed over to the Deputy Minister for Tourism by Mr. Stephen Ogol, the Country Coordinator of Creation Ambassadors Uganda.
The Creation Ambassadors, a lay apostolate of the Soroti Catholic Diocese, champions values rooted in Creation, Pro-life advocacy, and Environmental Conservation.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mr. Ogol emphasized the critical role of culture in shaping the identity and social behavior of the youth.
“Culture is not just about heritage, it is about building a united, civilized, and value-driven community. Supporting events like Ecomai is our way of investing in the moral and social fiber of our people,” Ogol noted.
He reiterated the Catholic Church’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with cultural institutions, such as the Iteso Cultural Union, in fostering a harmonious and well-grounded society.
“As an arm of the Catholic Church, we are dedicated to partnering with the Iteso Cultural Union to nurture our communities both spiritually and socially,” he added.
Fr. Michael Omaria, Director of Soroti Catholic Diocese Integrated Development Organization (SOCADIDO), also praised the collaboration between the Church and the cultural institution, He commended His Highness Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot and his leadership for their consistent efforts in uniting and uplifting the Ateker people.
“The Church recognizes the vital role culture plays in human development, Working alongside cultural leaders enhances our shared mission of serving the community with integrity and love,” Fr. Omaria said.
Joseph Ojatum, Deputy Minister for Tourism under the Iteso Cultural Union, expressed gratitude on behalf of the cultural leadership.
He thanked Creation Ambassadors and Bishop Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach for their continued commitment and compassion for the Ateker people.
“It fills me with pride to see our Bishop not only leading spiritually but also standing side-by-side with our cultural institution to serve the people, this unity sets a powerful example,” Ojatum said.
The Ecomai Festival Is slated to take place from Friday, April 18th to Saturday, April 19th, 2025, in Opeta Village, Magoro Sub-County, Katakwi District.
The two-day event will celebrate traditional Iteso cuisine and cultural practices, among the high-profile guests expected to attend are His Highness Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng, Toto Akaliait Juliet Among, and the Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Jessica Rose Alupo.
The contribution by the Catholic Diocese not only supports the logistical needs of the festival but also symbolizes a broader effort to unite faith and culture in service of the community.