Uganda is preparing to host the Ateker Cultural Festival for the first time at Soroti Sports Grounds from November 27th to 29th, 2024.
H.E. Jessica Alupo, the Vice President of Uganda, confirmed the development on July 23, 2024, following a meeting with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at State House, Entebbe.
The annual festival brings together the Ateker Community, which comprises the Karamojong and Iteso of Uganda and Kenya.
Others include the Turkana of Kenya, the Toposa of South Sudan, the Nyangatom, and the Masai of Tanzania.
“Ateker cultural festival takes place once a year, either in Kenya, South Sudan, or Ethiopia. However, Uganda has never hosted it. According to the Ambassador of Ethiopia to Uganda, H.E. Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, the cultural festival has been endorsed to be hosted by Uganda this year in November,” the Vice President noted.
She informed the President that the festival is intended to consolidate peace, build teams, celebrate unity, and explore economic opportunities among the Ateker community.
President Museveni assured the Ateker community of his support and confirmed his attendance as the Guest of Honor. He also implored the leaders to preach unity and social-economic transformation among the people.
The president cautioned the community against tribal wars, cattle rustling, and pastoral nomadism, saying that it hinders development.
The Paramount Chief (Emorimor) of the Iteso Cultural Union, Papa Paul Sande Emolot, who was also present in the meeting, thanked the President for his continuous support towards cultural institutions.
He emphasized the importance of the festival, saying that it was a big opportunity for the Ateker people to unite.
“Your Excellency, I would also like to thank you for loving Teso. You have made us very proud in Teso,” he stated.
Present were the Minister of Gender and Labour Development, Hon. Betty Amongi; the Ambassador of Ethiopia to Uganda, H.E. Estsegenet Bezabih Yimenu; Karamonja and Teso Cultural Ministers, as well as Members of Parliament.
