By Nathan Eyagu

Teso – As tourism in Uganda continues to evolve, the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) has found a devoted steward of cultural promotion in Joseph Ojatum, the Deputy Minister for Tourism and Documentation. Driven by passion and purpose, Ojatum is not just a cultural appointee — he is a tireless advocate for selling the beauty, history, and heritage of the Teso sub-region to the world.

Over the past year, Ojatum’s dedication has translated into groundbreaking initiatives that are transforming the perception of Teso from a lesser-known region into an emerging tourism gem. From mapping cultural and historical tourism sites to launching the first-ever Teso Tourism Symposium, Ojatum is giving Teso a new face — one rooted in culture, pride, and opportunity.

One of his most notable achievements was spearheading the documentation of Teso’s tourism destinations in partnership with NTV Uganda, a move that significantly boosted the visibility of the region. This professional showcase highlighted hidden treasures across Teso, from ancient rocks and historical shrines to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural practices.

Ojatum also played a key role in organizing the Ecomai Festival, an annual cultural event that celebrates Ateso heritage through traditional music, food, dance, fashion, and storytelling. The festival has become a powerful platform for local artists and a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists.

In addition to events and media campaigns, Ojatum’s office embarked on a comprehensive tourism site mapping exercise — identifying and profiling key destinations such as:

Nyero Rock Paintings in Kumi district – one of Uganda’s oldest prehistoric rock art sites.

Lake Bisina – a serene and bird-rich lake perfect for eco-tourism and birdwatching.

Awoja Swamp – a biodiversity haven and a cultural landmark.

Soroti Rock – a giant granite outcrop offering panoramic views of the city.

Kapir Cultural Sites – known for ancestral shrines and rich oral history,etc.

His vision is clear — to position Teso not just as a cultural tourism destination, but as a place where heritage meets hospitality.

"Tourism is not just about leisure. It's about identity, economy, and legacy," Ojatum remarked at the Teso Tourism Symposium. “We are telling the world that Teso is open, rich in culture, and ready for investment.”

Under Ojatum’s passionate leadership, tourism is not only reviving local pride but also creating potential avenues for youth employment, artisan business growth, and regional development.

As the journey continues, Joseph Ojatum remains a beacon of inspiration — showing that with the right mindset and commitment, even the most overlooked regions can rise and shine on the global tourism stage.