By Richard Onapatum
Kampala – On July 5, 2024, Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot, accompanied by his ministers, met with Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Alupo and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda, Bezabih Yimenu. The high-profile meeting, held at the Vice President’s office, focused on strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation among the Ateker groups, which include the Iteso, Nyagatom, Karamojong, Jie, and Turkana of Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
The discussions aimed to foster unity and cooperation among these groups, which share common cultural and historical ties. The meeting saw participation from various government officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Gender, the Ministry of Integrity, and Members of Parliament from Teso, Hon. MP Okiror and Hon. Angura.
Vice President Alupo highlighted the significance of following the example set by Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot in uniting the Ateker groups in their efforts to combat poverty and uphold his ideals and legacy. She stressed the importance of respecting Emolot’s vision for unity and progress within the Ateker communities.
The leaders exchanged views on enhancing economic, trade, and investment cooperation, focusing on areas that would benefit all the Ateker groups. The Vice President underscored the strategic direction to enhance relations with African countries, emphasizing the potential for regional and international collaboration on topics of mutual interest.
The Deputy Minister of Information and National Guidance, Abdallah Ochoggiah, representing the Iteso Cultural Union, urged all Iteso to seize opportunities for intra-clan meetings to foster family and clan cohesion and unity. He highlighted the importance of cultural unity in driving development and strengthening communal bonds.