By Nathan Eyagu
Soroti City is set to host an extraordinary cultural gathering, as Uganda welcomes the Ateker Reunion Festival for the first time. Expected to draw over 10,000 attendees from November 27th to 29th, 2024, this landmark event will unite Ateker communities from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan in a powerful celebration of shared heritage and regional unity.
The Ugandan government’s support, totaling UGX 2.3 billion, highlights its commitment to cultural integration and East African solidarity. Traditionally alternating between Ethiopia and Kenya, this prestigious festival is coming to Uganda under the auspices of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in a historic move that reaffirms Uganda’s dedication to African unity.
This year’s theme, "Celebrating Shared Heritage: Path Towards Peace, Prosperity, and Cultural Resilience," captures the festival’s mission to bridge cultural and national divides through unity, peace, and progress. The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, shared that approximately 10,000 people are expected to attend, with a diverse representation of 460 foreign delegates from neighboring countries and 2,040 local participants from every district in Uganda. Additionally, 5,000 members of the public and 200 service providers will join in the festivities, alongside an essential support team of 1,000.
Vice President Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo commended the Ministry of Gender and other officials for their tireless dedication to making this event a success. She expressed deep appreciation for Ethiopian authorities and emphasized Uganda’s sustained involvement with the festival since 2001, noting that this year’s participation underscores President Museveni’s commitment to fostering African integration.
The government’s support also extends to other cultural activities: UGX 200 million was allocated for the recent Karamoja Cultural Day, UGX 300 million for the coronation anniversary of His Highness Emorimor Paul Sande Etomeileng, and UGX 200 million for the upcoming Lango Cultural Day. These contributions reflect Uganda’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and celebrating regional diversity.
A highlight of the festival will be the presence of dignitaries from across Africa, including Kenyan President William Ruto, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Their participation underscores the festival’s Pan-African importance and its role in promoting unity among East African nations.
With final preparations underway, Soroti City is abuzz with excitement. Iteso’s Prime Minister Ochole Andrew has promised that this year’s festival will be “more colorful than ever,” while Soroti Resident City Commissioner Peter Pex Paak has called for smooth collaboration among the organizing teams to ensure a seamless experience for all guests. Media representatives have also expressed their enthusiasm, advocating for transparent communication and access to event coverage.
The Vice President underscored the vital role of the media in promoting the event’s success, pledging strong cooperation to ensure comprehensive coverage that highlights the festival’s unity and cultural significance.
As the Ateker Reunion Festival draws near, all eyes are on Uganda. This celebration promises to leave an enduring legacy, one that strengthens cultural pride, peace, and development across East Africa, resonating with the aspirations of the Yangatom, Iteso, Topotha, Turkana, Karamoja, Kitengela, and Arusai communities.
