By Our Reporter
Thousands of people from all walks of life thronged Emokori Grounds in Bukedea District on Saturday to celebrate the third coronation anniversary of His Royal Highness Papa Emorimor III, Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng. The colorful event, characterized by rich cultural displays, traditional dances, and prayers for unity, drew dignitaries, cultural leaders, and political figures from across the country.
In a special message delivered by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commended the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) for its steadfast efforts in promoting peace, unity, and cultural identity among the Iteso people. He praised the leadership of Emorimor Emolot, describing culture as an essential pillar in the country’s socio-economic transformation.
“Cultural institutions are key partners in the national development process,” Museveni’s message read in part. “By promoting moral values, unity, and self-reliance, they complement the government’s efforts toward achieving prosperity for all.”
The President’s message also highlighted the government’s progress in fostering peace, education, infrastructure development, and agricultural modernization, urging the people of Teso to leverage these achievements for wealth creation.
Speaker Among, who represented the President, reiterated the call for unity and tolerance among leaders and communities. She cautioned against divisive politics and emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in building a stronger Teso.
“We must stand together as one people, regardless of our political or religious affiliations. Development can only thrive where there is peace and unity,” Speaker Among said.
She used the occasion to launch two major initiatives, the Akaliat Development Foundation Limited and the Akolong Newspaper, both aimed at empowering local communities and enhancing information dissemination within the Teso Cultural Union. Among noted that the Foundation would focus on community-based projects, especially targeting women and youth empowerment.
In his speech, Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot expressed deep appreciation to the government for its continued support to cultural institutions and outlined a visionary roadmap to economically empower the Iteso community. He announced plans to mobilize at least 20,000 members under a cooperative society that would eventually transform into a community bank.
“Our goal is to create a sustainable economic structure that empowers every Iteso to participate in development,” the Emorimor stated. “Through savings and credit cooperatives, we can build a stronger financial base to support local enterprises and eradicate poverty.”
He further appealed to the President to continue supporting the cultural institution’s development agenda and reaffirmed his commitment to preserving and promoting Iteso culture.
The event concluded with traditional performances, blessings from elders, and symbolic gestures of unity among the Iteso clans. As the sun set over Bukedea, the atmosphere remained vibrant, a clear reflection of a community proud of its heritage and optimistic about its future under the leadership of Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot.
