The Soroti Regional Museum, located in Soroti city, is a museum that was put in place to preserve and showcase the unique history, culture, and traditions of the Teso people.
Joseph Ojatun, the Deputy Tourism Minister at the Iteso Cultural Union, said that the museum was established in 2014 with the aim of promoting and preserving Teso culture, language, and traditions.
“Major exhibits in the museum include traditional Teso print, clothing, and jewelry, which hold significant meaning, and the Play Station has a crucial role in the community’s identity, social status, and cultural heritage. Examples include Akirikir (men’s wear), a long, flowing garment made from cotton or bark cloth, symbolizing masculinity and dignity,” Ojatun said.
He added that Ekirebe (women’s wear) is a colorful, beaded apron worn over a skirt, representing femininity, beauty, and cultural identity, and Ateker (beaded vest) is worn by both men and women, signifying status, wealth, and cultural affiliation.
Ojatun highlighted the importance of jewelry like Esimu (beaded necklaces), saying that it symbolizes beauty, femininity, and cultural identity, while Akilete (beaded wristlets) represent status, wealth, and spiritual connection, and Ekitela (beaded anklelets) signify cultural affiliation, beauty, and femininity.
He further identified other collections, including agricultural tools and equipment, musical instruments and dance regalia, historical documents, and photographs. According to Ojatun, there are over 500 artifacts and exhibits, rare books and manuscripts on Teso history and culture, and audio-visual recordings of Teso music, dance, and oral traditions.
Ojatun noted that the museum also holds programs and activities like cultural workshops and training sessions, traditional dance and music performances, art and craft exhibitions, historical lectures and seminars, and community outreach programs.
The Teso Museum is a vital institution for the preservation and promotion of Teso culture, providing a valuable resource for education, research, and cultural exchange.
On December 15, 1953, a significant moment in Teso cultural heritage occurred when the Teso Museum Society was founded. The museum was temporarily hosted in the Lukiko Hail of Soroti by the Ministry of Culture and Community Development from 1965 to 1976. However, in 2017, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities constructed a permanent home for the Soroti regional museum.
