Iteso Cultural Union Seeks UGX 3 Billion for Emorimor’s Coronation Anniversary
By Fredrick Siminyu
The Iteso Cultural Union is facing financial constraints in raising over Shs 3 billion to finance activities for the 2nd coronation anniversary of Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng.
The anniversary is set to take place on October 22, 2024, under the theme “Youth Socio-Economic Empowerment for the Nurturing of Iteso Cultural Legacy.”
During a press briefing in Kampala, Mr. Andrew Ocole, the Prime Minister of the Iteso Cultural Union, emphasized the importance of public contributions to support the event.
The event is anticipated to host around 30,000 attendees, and the budget stands at approximately Shs 3 billion, primarily allocated for accommodating guests, catering, and establishing necessary infrastructure at the venue.
Mr. Ocole mentioned that the anniversary will act as a prelude to the Ateker re-union festival, scheduled to be held in Soroti City from November 27 to 29, 2024.
The Ateker Re-Union Festival will bring together diverse Ateker-speaking communities from Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Mr. Ocole highlighted that the festival will feature participants from various communities, including the Nyangatom Community from Ethiopia, the Toposa tribe from South Sudan, and the Bara tribe from Juba.
The theme for this year’s Ateker Re-Union Festival is “Celebrating Shared Heritage, Forging a Path Towards Peace, Prosperity, and Cultural Renaissance.”
The event anticipates over 25,000 attendees, including delegations from Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, and the host country, Uganda.
Ms. Grace Ikirimat, Minister for Institutional Development at the Iteso Cultural Union, emphasized the festival’s capacity to enhance local revenues.
Ms. Grace Atebat, Deputy Minister of Finance and Investment at the Iteso Cultural Union, expressed optimism that the reunion will address regional security concerns.
The Iteso Cultural Union is seeking public support to make the events a success.
