Vice President of Uganda, Rtd Maj Jessica Alupo urged the Ateker people to take full advantage of various government programs aimed at fostering economic growth and development.
H.E. Alupo made these remarks in a speech read by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi Akena, during the closing ceremonies of the Ateker Reunion Festival on Friday, November 29, 2024, at the Soroti Sports Grounds in Soroti City.
The Vice President highlighted key initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP), and the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW), calling on the Ateker community to engage with these resources to create wealth and ensure a prosperous future.
Alupo emphasized the responsibility of leaders to promote unity, harness local talents, and combat poverty among the Ateker people.
“Today we are closing the Ateker reunion festival. We have celebrated our tradition through dances, food, shared languages, and values. Let us use this moment to strengthen our unity and commit ourselves to a shared future,” she stated.
Despite the artificial borders that divide the Ateker people across Uganda, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia, Alupo reaffirmed their shared identity and cultural heritage.
“This is a moment of unity, reflection, and hope for a brighter shared future. This is a testament that despite the colonial-era borders, these communities have preserved their identity,” she remarked, highlighting the rich traditions of the Iteso, Karamojong, Turkana, Langi, Akwa, and Masai communities.
The Vice President emphasized that the festival serves as a celebration of cultural heritage and a platform for acknowledging the challenges faced by these communities.
“Culture is not just about the past. It is the foundation upon which we build the future,” Alupo added.
The 2024 edition of the Ateker Reunion Festival, held under the theme “Celebrating Shared Heritage; Forging a Path Towards Peace, Prosperity, and Cultural Renaissance,” marks the first time this significant event is being celebrated in Uganda. The festival brings together diverse Ateker-speaking communities, including groups from Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, and various regions in Uganda.
Alupo’s call to action resonates strongly with the attendees, encouraging them to not only celebrate their shared heritage but also to actively participate in government initiatives aimed at enhancing their livelihoods and fostering sustainable development within the Ateker community.
