By Our Reporter 

Soroti City – Soroti City Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Joan Alobo Achom, has stirred a fresh wave of regional pride and self-reliance after publicly urging Teso’s elite to stop concentrating their wealth in distant cities like Kampala and Mbarara, and instead channel it back into their homeland.

Speaking passionately at a fundraising event for the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Cathedral held at Soroti Sports Ground on Saturday, Alobo challenged high-profile individuals from Teso to rethink their investment priorities.

“The government does not build a place first—it only supports what is already being done on the ground,” Alobo said, drawing applause from a crowd that included religious leaders, local officials, and residents.

Alobo expressed concern over the growing trend of prominent Iteso building luxurious homes and businesses outside the region, while key sectors such as infrastructure, education, and industry back home remain underfunded.

“Many of our big people are constructing mansions in Kampala and Mbarara, yet our own region remains underdeveloped. That must change,” she emphasized.

Her remarks struck a chord among attendees, many of whom echoed her sentiments. Alobo encouraged business owners, professionals, and leaders to embrace a vision of a thriving Teso, built by its own sons and daughters.

“Teso has the talent, the land, and the people—it just needs the will. There’s nothing stopping us from developing our own city,” she added.

In a heartfelt moment, Alobo also addressed past allegations that linked her to the burning of Jozan Nursery and Primary School—allegations she has repeatedly denied.

“To the church and the people who prayed for me when I was falsely accused—I say thank you. Your prayers and support gave me strength,” she told the congregation.

Alobo’s message aligns with a growing movement across Uganda promoting decentralized development and economic empowerment at the regional level. Her rallying cry is expected to spark fresh debate among Teso’s elites and inspire greater community-driven development in the sub-region.

The PAG fundraising event doubled as a reminder of the power of unity, prayer, and purpose—an occasion where faith and regional advocacy found common ground.