By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - The Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) has embarked on a significant journey to bring Teso’s vibrant culture to a global audience through a new partnership with Bonanza De Cultural Carnival, a prominent organization known for uniting cultural leaders and investors worldwide.

The ICU is set to play a key role in the upcoming cultural summit and carnival in Jinja, Uganda, scheduled for September 11th-13th, 2024. This event will serve as a major platform for showcasing Teso’s unique cultural heritage and attracting potential investors.

Joseph Ojatum, the ICU Minister for Tourism and Documentation, expressed the union’s enthusiasm for the collaboration. "Representatives from Bonanza Cultural Carnival came all the way from Kampala seeking a partnership with the Iteso Cultural Union," Ojiatum noted. "As an institution, we are delighted to engage in discussions that focus on preserving our culture, showcasing it to the world, and exploring avenues to market it internationally."

The cultural summit, a highlight of the event, will bring together cultural leaders from various countries, allowing them to present investment opportunities directly to a global audience of investors.

The Iteso Cultural Union is preparing to seize this opportunity to present its own investment proposals, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism. The Emorimor, the Iteso cultural leader, is expected to lead these presentations, showcasing Teso’s potential and ambition on a global stage.

Ojatum emphasized the significance of the event for Teso. "The summit will not only provide a platform to showcase our cultural assets but also allow us to engage directly with investors who can help elevate our region’s economic status. We are committed to preparing the best concepts to attract investment and foster development in Teso," he said.

The cultural carnival in Jinja, set at the iconic source of the Nile, will feature a wide array of cultural exhibitions from different global communities. Attendees will be treated to a rich display of traditional fashions, cuisines, and performances. The ICU has confirmed its participation, with plans to exhibit Teso’s traditional attire, culinary delights, and dances.

"We are excited to bring Teso’s culture to the forefront at this international event," Ojiatum remarked. "Our prime minister has endorsed our participation, and we are preparing to showcase our traditional dressing, foods, and dances in Jinja."

Among the traditional groups slated to perform at the event are the Akogo group, Motomoto group led by Uncle Ben, and the Ekiriakiria dancers from Katakwi District. These groups will present a variety of traditional Teso dances, offering the world a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the region.

Additionally, Teso’s renowned culinary experts will have the opportunity to prepare and showcase traditional dishes such as emuna, akobokobo, and ecomai, providing a taste of Teso’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Sheikh Umar Kuuwe, Executive Director of Bonanza De Cultural Carnival, highlighted the importance of the partnership with the ICU. "Our initiative is designed to bring together cultural leaders and investors from around the world to discuss the role of culture in development. By partnering with the Iteso Cultural Union, we are confident that we will see a strong representation of Teso at the summit and carnival," Kuuwe said.

He also praised the ICU’s leadership, particularly the prime minister, for their active involvement and effective planning. "We thank the Emorimor for selecting a prime minister who is both aggressive in his approach and committed to execution and planning. We believe this is just the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between Bonanza Cultural Limited and the ICU."

The cultural carnival, which rotates between continents, will be hosted in Uganda for the next two years before moving to another location. Afterward, it will take about twelve years before Africa hosts the event again. The initiative, which started in 2017, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is now back on track with renewed vigor.

Ojatum concluded by urging the people of Teso to embrace the carnival and participate actively. He called upon those with talents in music, fashion, and other cultural expressions to come forward and be part of the event, as it offers a rare opportunity to gain international recognition. "This event will not only promote Teso’s culture globally but also attract investors who can bring development to our sub-region. Let us all come together to make the most of this opportunity," he said.

The partnership between the Iteso Cultural Union and Bonanza De Cultural Carnival marks a significant step towards promoting and preserving Teso’s cultural heritage while opening doors for economic growth and international investment.