WANO app Brings African Cultures to the Digital Stage
A groundbreaking digital innovation by the Iteso community in the USA has given birth to the WANO App, a new content creation platform aimed at empowering the Iteso youth through creativity, storytelling, and cultural promotion.
The WANO platform, proudly branded with the slogan “Africa to the World,” blends African identity with modern technology to offer a unique space for users to post, share, and promote their content globally.
This initiative was officially announced during a press briefing held in Soroti City.
According to Eilmer Bari, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and developer of the WANO App, the platform was inspired not just by profit motives, but by a vision to create impact and make a difference in society.
“This is more than making money,Each and every one of us, especially the Iteso, can make a difference,WANO is an ideology and an engine for revolutionizing the world for the benefit of future generations.” Bari stated
Bari, an Iteso born in Nyero, Kumi District and currently based in the USA, described the app as a digital movement meant to preserve and promote African cultures through short videos accessible on the internet.
“Everyone is building their future globally, WANO is here to make sure our cultures are also spread and celebrated globally,” he said.
“As we grow, we grow together and this platform will help us retain and develop our local resources.”
Julius Ojula, popularly known as JOCARE services and the WANO Eastern Uganda Coordinator, highlighted the app’s role in empowering African cultures, especially through the use of native languages and local storytelling.
“The WANO App allows users to share short content, stories, and culture-rich material in formats of 15 to 120 seconds,” Ojula explained.
He also revealed that the official launch date for the WANO App is set for June 7, 2025, after which users will be able to download it on their phones, upload content, and access a payment system that directly rewards creators through mobile money and personal accounts.
The app is expected to operate similarly to global platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook but with a more localized, African-focused experience.
Icarat Samuel, president of the Teso Bloggers Association (TBA), commended the innovation, stating that the platform would be a great boost for bloggers and digital storytellers in the region.
“We believe in digital storytelling as a powerful tool to drive positive change, uplift talents, promote culture, and shape narratives that inspire unity,” he said.
Joseph Ojatum, Minister of Tourism under the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), applauded the WANO initiative, saying it was the first of its kind in Teso and Uganda as a whole.
“This is a celebration of Ateker culture, and for the first time, our people can earn from their content,” he noted.
“ICU and the tourism sector are fully in support of this innovation. We call upon all youth to unite, support, and embrace this great initiative”
