By Richard Onapatum
Preparations are underway for the International Women’s Day celebrations slated for March 8, 2024, in Katakwi district, with organizers gearing up for what promises to be a historic event.
Katakwi has been selected as the host district for this year’s celebrations, marking a significant milestone for the region. The district Boma Grounds will serve as the venue, setting the stage for a memorable occasion.
Teso leaders, speaking to our reporter, expressed their readiness to welcome the guest of honor, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for this auspicious event. They emphasized the importance of the celebrations in highlighting the achievements and challenges faced by women in Uganda.
Vice President Jessica Alupo, speaking during the commissioning of Okadanya Community Primary School in Katakwi, assured the communities that transportation would be provided for the event. She urged residents to turn out in large numbers to mark the occasion and celebrate the achievements of women.
Geoffrey Omolo, the LC5 district chairman, revealed that extensive preparations had been made to ensure the success of the celebrations. He mentioned numerous meetings held at the National Organizing Committee (NOC) level to coordinate colorful and impactful festivities. Omolo also highlighted plans for entertainment and exhibitions, aiming to showcase the diverse talents and innovations within the community.
“We have allocated 10 slots each for Karamoja and Teso. It’s not just for us here; I know many have been looking forward to this,” stated Omolo, urging the business community to contribute to enhancing the event’s ambiance.
Omolo also mentioned key issues that Teso leaders intend to address with the President, including long-term insecurities in Teso, cattle compensation, and conflicts between locals and wildlife authorities over reserved lands.
Andrew Joseph Koluo, the Member of Parliament for Toroma County in Katakwi district, expressed gratitude to the government for selecting their district as the venue for this year’s celebrations. He encouraged women to participate actively, emphasizing that the messages of the day would focus on empowering them. Koluo also pledged to use the occasion to advocate for poverty alleviation programs and address the persistent issue of cattle rustling in the region.
Derrick Orone, the MP for Gogonyo County in Pallisa district, commended the government for choosing Katakwi as the host district for the Women’s Day celebrations. He urged the Teso community to turn out in large numbers to welcome President Museveni and celebrate the achievements of women.
Resident District Commissioner Kotido, Michael Bwalatum, emphasized the significance of the President’s visit to the region. He noted that it provides leaders with a valuable opportunity to highlight the region’s challenges and opportunities directly to the President.
As the countdown to International Women’s Day begins, anticipation and excitement continue to mount in Katakwi district. The celebrations are poised to be a vibrant tribute to the resilience and contributions of women across Uganda.