Her Royal Majesty Akaliait Juliet Among Emolot Atomeileng Akaliait Toto Iteso, Queen of the Iteso, has met with top management of Kumi University as preparations intensify for the official launch of the Akaliait Development Foundation (AKADEF) later this year.
During her visit, HRM Akaliait was warmly received by Kumi University Vice Chancellor Prof. Jong-In Hong and other senior officials.
The meeting provided an opportunity for cordial engagement, as the Queen shared her vision for the foundation and explored areas of possible collaboration between the institution and her initiatives.
The Akaliait Development Foundation, an initiative of HRM Akaliait, is the first of its kind in Ateker Iteso.
It is designed to address critical social, cultural, and developmental issues affecting children, youth, women, and the wider Ateker community, both within Teso and across the diaspora.
Speaking after the meeting, the Queen expressed optimism about the upcoming launch and underscored the foundation’s mission.
“AKADEF is about giving back to our people, empowering communities, and safeguarding our cultural heritage while addressing today’s pressing social needs,” she said.
The foundation’s activities will center on promoting child welfare and nutrition, improving education opportunities for vulnerable youth, preserving and promoting cultural values, supporting enterprising women, and strengthening family units through counseling and positive parenting.
HRM Akaliait emphasized that nurturing disciplined children and fostering peaceful families are key to a prosperous society.
The official launch of AKADEF is scheduled for 21st October 2025 in Bukedea District, strategically timed to precede the coronation anniversary celebrations of HRM Paul Sande Emolot, Emorimor Papa Iteso III.
The launch is expected to draw dignitaries, community leaders, cultural icons, and development partners from across Uganda and the region.
Prof. Jong-In Hong welcomed the Queen’s vision and commended the foundation’s objectives, noting that they align with the university’s commitment to community transformation.
“At Kumi University, we believe in education as a tool for empowerment. Collaborations such as this can amplify positive change across Teso and beyond,” he said.
The meeting marks a significant step in forging partnerships between cultural leadership and academic institutions to drive grassroots development.
As the countdown to the October launch continues, preparations are in high gear to ensure AKADEF’s unveiling becomes a milestone event for the Ateker Iteso and a lasting platform for positive transformation.
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