By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - The Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) has unveiled a new transport van to support its activities, particularly in preparation for the upcoming Ateker Re-Union Festival. This move is part of the Union’s ongoing efforts to improve mobility and enhance accessibility for its leadership and staff across the Ateker-speaking communities.

The Toyota Tubo van, with registration number UBR 781X, was officially handed over on Wednesday morning at the ICU offices to the institution’s Prime Minister, Mr. Andrew Ocole. The addition of this vehicle will help ensure that ICU leadership and staff can effectively reach all subordinates and support activities related to the Re-Union Festival, which is scheduled to take place in Soroti City.

Prime Minister Ocole highlighted the importance of the vehicle for the Union’s operations. "This vehicle has cost the institution approximately 80 million shillings, including taxes and shipping fees from Japan," Ocole stated. He also mentioned that a second vehicle, a Toyota Prado, is currently undergoing repairs in Kampala and will soon join the ICU's fleet. These two vehicles are expected to enhance the Union's ability to coordinate events and carry out its various institutional functions more efficiently.

The Ateker Re-Union Festival, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the Iteso and other Ateker-speaking communities, is one of the ICU’s flagship events. With large crowds expected, the new vehicles will play a critical role in ensuring smooth logistical coordination and supporting the delivery of resources and personnel to the event.

In addition to the transport upgrade, Prime Minister Ocole also appealed for continued support from the Ateker people for the ICU’s broader initiatives, especially the construction of the Iteso Multi-Billion Palace. "The construction of the Iteso Multi-Billion Palace is a key project for preserving and promoting our cultural heritage," Ocole remarked. "We urge the community to contribute to this important effort as we work towards bringing it to life."

The ICU’s investment in new transport infrastructure demonstrates its commitment to enhancing its operational capacity and better serving the cultural and developmental needs of the Iteso people. As the Union continues its mission of cultural preservation and community development, the addition of these vehicles will help ensure the success of the Ateker Re-Union Festival and other key initiatives in the future.

With these resources now in place, the ICU is better positioned to deliver a well-organized and impactful festival, while strengthening its capacity to serve the Ateker-speaking communities in the years ahead.