By James Alomu 

Soroti City – The Ministry of Tourism and Documentation under the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), is rallying the Iteso community to take part in the inaugural Ecomai Festival—a celebration designed to revive the region’s rich cultural and culinary traditions while promoting healthy living.

During a press conference held at Sparrow Hotel in Soroti City, Steven Ojacor, Deputy Speaker for Information in the Iteso Cultural Union, underscored the festival’s mission to highlight traditional Iteso dishes like Ecomai and cucumbers. He emphasized their nutritional and cultural value, citing longevity among Katakwi residents as a direct result of their continued consumption of indigenous foods.

“According to recent statistics, people in Katakwi, where Ecomai is commonly consumed, have a longer life expectancy,” Ojacor noted. “This festival will give the public a chance to rediscover and appreciate local dishes that support wellness and long life.”

He warned against the growing preference for processed and fried foods, linking them to increasing cases of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cancer within the community. 

“We are witnessing a concerning drift away from our roots,” Ojacor added. “Returning to our indigenous foods and cultural practices is not only a step towards better health but also a way to reconnect with our identity.”

Joseph Ojatum, Minister of Tourism and Documentary under the Iteso Cultural Union, echoed these sentiments and called on the Teso sub-region to turn up in large numbers for the festival. He highlighted the efforts already made to publicize the event and expressed confidence in its cultural and economic impact.

“This festival is not just about food; it’s about preserving and promoting our way of life,” Ojatum said.

Andrew Ocole, Prime Minister of the Iteso Cultural Union, revealed that the Ecomai Festival will become an annual event. He emphasized its potential to boost local economies through tourism, foster community unity, and reinforce the cultural fabric of the Iteso people.

“It will be a symbol of who we are—a celebration that showcases our traditions and offers economic opportunities for our people,” Ocole affirmed.

The festival will go beyond culinary showcases. Cultural author Pascal Amuriat announced activities such as a traditional village walk, designed to immerse participants in the rural Iteso lifestyle, and a nostalgic football match using a handmade ball created from rags and discarded cartons—highlighting local creativity and resourcefulness.

Organizers hope the Ecomai Festival will serve as a cornerstone for cultural revival, reminding the Iteso that embracing their roots is not only a matter of pride, but also a path to healthier, more unified communities in the face of rapid modernization.