By Our Reporter
His Royal Highness Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etimeileng, Paramount Chief of the Iteso, is expected to land in Uganda tomorrow after a landmark diplomatic mission that spanned the Kingdom of Eswatini and South Africa.
The week-long visit has been hailed as a breakthrough for cultural diplomacy, unlocking opportunities in business, education, and employment for the Iteso people and their partners across the region.
According to officials close to the Emorimor’s delegation, the tour sought to build enduring alliances between the Iteso Chiefdom and fellow traditional monarchies in Southern Africa. Meetings with political leaders, cultural institutions, and development agencies focused on economic cooperation, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
Early reports indicate tangible progress in identifying trade and educational exchange programs that could benefit both Ugandan and Southern African communities.
A highlight of the visit came on 12 September 2025, when Papa Emorimor traveled to KwaZulu-Natal at the personal invitation of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini. He attended the vibrant annual Zulu Reed Dance, a centuries-old celebration of culture and womanhood.
The ceremony, held at the newly inaugurated Moshobeni Palace, was both festive and momentous. King Misuzulu personally welcomed the Iteso leader, describing the visit as “a blessing to the Zulu nation” and symbolically declaring the palace a home for Papa Emorimor whenever he returns. Observers described the warm reception as a powerful gesture of solidarity between the two kingdoms.
During the festivities, Papa Emorimor unveiled a Draft Strategic Cooperation Plan aimed at deepening ties between the Iteso and Zulu kingdoms. The proposal outlines four key pillars:
Cultural preservation and exchange, to promote traditional heritage and cross-cultural learning.
Youth empowerment initiatives, fostering leadership training and skills development.
Economic and joint development projects, with a focus on trade, agriculture, and tourism.
Strengthened inter-kingdom diplomatic cooperation, setting a precedent for traditional leaders across Africa.
Zulu royal aides signaled enthusiasm for the initiative, describing it as “a model for how African monarchies can collaborate on 21st-century challenges.”
The Emorimor’s earlier engagements in Eswatini also emphasized economic empowerment, with discussions reportedly paving the way for new investment channels and scholarships for Iteso youth.
While full details of these agreements are expected upon his return, officials suggest that the partnerships could enhance market access for Iteso agricultural products and create exchange programs for artisans and students.
Papa Emorimor’s entourage confirmed that he will fly back to Uganda to Uganda tomorrow on Wednesday, where cultural leaders and community members are preparing a warm welcome. Analysts note that the successful tour has elevated the Iteso Kingdom’s profile and demonstrated the growing role of traditional leadership in fostering pan-African cooperation.
As the Paramount Chief steps off the plane, he brings with him a vision of unity and development that extends well beyond national borders, marking what many believe is the dawn of a new era for Iteso diplomacy.
