Her Royal Majesty Toto Akaliait Juliet Among on Sunday afternoon joined Christians at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ochegen Outstation of Kwapa Parish in Tororo, where she delivered a heartfelt message on the importance of purity and cultural preservation among the Iteso people. Her address, which resonated strongly with the congregation, underscored the vital role of tradition in shaping the moral and cultural fabric of the community.
Speaking to the faithful, Toto Akaliait urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to guide young girls in embracing purity as a proud symbol of heritage. She explained that cultural practices centered on dignity, discipline, and self-respect must be upheld if the Iteso are to maintain their unique identity in the modern world. “Safeguarding cultural values is not only a moral responsibility,” she said, “but also a collective duty to strengthen the foundation of our community and inspire pride in who we are.”
Her remarks were warmly received by the congregation, who voiced overwhelming support for the Akaliait Development Foundation (AKADEF), the initiative she leads. Many parishioners praised AKADEF for stepping into a critical role in preserving Teso’s traditions at a time when cultural erosion threatens to weaken the bonds of identity among the youth. Through grassroots mobilization, mentorship, and cultural advocacy, AKADEF has become a trusted platform for reviving pride in heritage while equipping the younger generation with values of discipline and resilience.
Community members present at the service emphasized that AKADEF is not just an organization, but a movement restoring confidence in the cultural strength of the Iteso. Parents expressed gratitude that their children are being guided towards respect and responsibility, while youth leaders highlighted that the Foundation provides a sense of belonging and pride in their roots. “This is the vision we have been waiting for,” one parishioner remarked. “AKADEF is bringing us together to protect our daughters, guide our sons, and strengthen the entire community.”
The growing support for AKADEF reflects a broader awakening within Teso, where cultural leaders, religious institutions, and ordinary citizens are uniting behind the call to preserve identity and heritage. With its emphasis on purity, discipline, and the safeguarding of cultural values, the Foundation is helping to build a new generation of Iteso who are confident, proud, and resilient in the face of modern challenges.
As the service concluded, the phrase “Emuria Koliai” echoed among the faithful – a unifying rallying call that has come to symbolize both strength and solidarity in the pursuit of cultural preservation. The response was a clear indication that the people of Teso are ready to rally behind Toto Akaliait’s vision and stand with AKADEF as it expands its outreach across the region.
With momentum building, AKADEF is positioning itself as a cornerstone in cultural advocacy, bridging tradition with modern aspirations. As more community members pledge their support, the Foundation’s mission to protect values and empower future generations is quickly gaining ground, signaling a brighter, united future for the Iteso people.
