By James Alomu

Soroti City – A Ugandan-born innovator from the Teso region, now based in the United States, has unveiled a transformative mobile application aimed at revitalizing African storytelling and preserving cultural heritage. The app, Wano, was officially introduced during a press briefing hosted by the Teso Bloggers Association in Soroti City.

Launched as a dedicated space for cultural expression, Wano empowers African content creators to share short-form videos—each lasting up to two minutes—that highlight indigenous languages, traditional customs, and diverse heritage across the continent.

“This initiative is not just about monetization—it’s about making a lasting impact across Africa,” said Eilmer Bari, the CEO of Wano. “The app is designed for everyone. It’s user-friendly and inclusive, offering a space where storytellers of all ages and backgrounds can celebrate their heritage.”

Optimized for mobile devices, Wano emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, allowing users to create and consume content in their native languages. By fusing time-honored storytelling techniques with modern technology, the platform bridges the gap between generations, ensuring that African narratives are preserved and shared widely.

Samuel Icarat, President of the Teso Bloggers Association, praised the innovation, highlighting the power of digital media in cultural preservation.

“Digital storytelling is one of the most powerful tools to define and reclaim our identity,” Icarat stated. “Wano will support creators across Africa, enabling them to present authentic content that reshapes global perceptions of who we are.”

The app's development is part of a broader cultural revival led by the Teso Bloggers Association, which continues to champion digital empowerment for youth and communities throughout Africa.

“This app was built for us,” added Julius Jocare, the project coordinator. “We wanted a tool that allows us to own and share our stories in our own languages. Wano is a digital mirror of who we truly are.”

The initiative has also garnered support from cultural institutions, notably the Iteso Cultural Union. Hon. Ojatum, Minister of Tourism and Documentation within the Union, commended the effort for its potential to uplift the Iteso identity.

“This is a significant milestone for our region,” he said. “Wano will help document and promote our traditions in a way that resonates with younger generations while safeguarding our cultural identity.”

Scheduled for an official rollout in the coming months, Wano aspires to be more than a content platform—it positions itself as a cultural movement. With a mission to amplify authentic African voices and reclaim narrative ownership, the app invites a new era of digital storytelling rooted in pride, diversity, and heritage.

As the digital age continues to evolve, the creators of Wano, along with the Teso Bloggers Association, remain committed to ensuring that Africa’s rich cultural legacy is not only preserved but shared boldly with the worl