By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - While addressing the packed crowd at Soroti Senior Secondary School, His Highness Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot delivered a powerful message to the youth of Teso: it's time to transform the regional economy through entrepreneurship.

As the Iteso Paramount Chief, Emorimor emphasized that the youth must shift their mindset from seeking jobs to creating their own opportunities. He called on them to be the innovators and job creators the region needs to thrive.

Highlighting the pressing issue of unemployment in the area, he urged the young people to take a bold, proactive approach to close the employment gap. "The opportunities are here, you just need to seize them," he said.

Drawing from his own life experience, Emorimor shared his humble beginnings, recalling how he started by selling groundnuts on the streets of Tororo over thirty years ago. His story was a powerful reminder that even the smallest beginnings can lead to great success. "Focus on cash businesses if you want to grow financially; start small and build your ideas," he advised.

His words were further validated by the inspiring success story of Ijala Joseph, a model farmer from Serere district. Ijala started with just two chickens and has now grown his business to employ more than twenty people in his community. 

Emorimor didn’t mince words as he urged the youth to abandon laziness and the false allure of a luxurious lifestyle. "You have the power to change your community and your future. Don't wait for things to come to you—go after them!" he declared.

He also encouraged young people to dive into short-term crop farming as a practical first step towards greater economic involvement. "It doesn’t matter how small you start, it’s the action that counts."

The Chief called on the local business community to rally together, support emerging entrepreneurs, and foster networking opportunities that could pave the way for future business leaders.

In a strong show of support for regional development, Emorimor shared a bold initiative from the Iteso Cultural Union to build a new palace, inviting the youth to actively engage in resource mobilization efforts that will benefit the entire region.

In his closing remarks, Emorimor reiterated that entrepreneurship is more than just a path to financial success—it’s the key to community development and economic resilience in Teso. His lecture left the youth inspired, motivated, and ready to take on the world of business with new ambition and determination.