Teso sub-region has once again witnessed a grand cultural and developmental milestone as the 3rd Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Highness (HRH) Emorimor Papa Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng was celebrated in splendour and unity.
The colourful event, held at Emokor Grounds in Bukedea District, was not only a commemoration of Emorimor’s reign but also a strong statement of progress, vision, and transformation for the people of Teso.
Held under the theme “Investing in Girl Child and Boy Child Education,” the celebration reflected Emorimor’s deep commitment to nurturing an enlightened and empowered generation.
The event drew thousands of participants, including cultural leaders, government officials, and international delegates from South Africa, the Kingdom of Eswatini, USA, India, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Burundi, and various parts of Uganda.
In his keynote address, HRH Emolot highlighted education as the most powerful tool to transform the social and economic well-being of Teso.
He stressed that investing in both boys and girls would be the foundation for a more prosperous and self-reliant community.
“Through education, the future and economy of Teso will change. We must declare total war on school dropouts,” Emorimor asserted.
To further this cause, the Emorimor launched the Akaliat Development Foundation (AKADEF) a new initiative that works alongside the Emorimor Education Fund to support vulnerable learners, particularly the girl child.
The foundation aims to reduce school dropouts by addressing financial hardships and providing mentorship and essential support.
The highlight of the day was the progress announcement on the Ere Iteso Cultural Centre, a flagship project designed to strengthen the cultural identity, unity, and development of the Iteso people.
HRH Emolot revealed that the land for the project has already been secured and titled, marking a significant step forward. He confirmed that the official groundbreaking ceremony and fundraising will take place on December 13, 2025.
“We have done everything necessary. The land is ready, the title is secured, and the construction committee is in place. Now we must join hands to make Ere Iteso a reality,” he said, rallying support from the government, development partners, and the entire Teso community.
The Emorimor emphasized that the Ere Iteso will serve as a cultural hub, training centre, and tourism site offering space for cultural preservation, education, and economic empowerment through heritage-based initiatives.
The anniversary also witnessed the launch of the Akolong Newspaper, a publication envisioned to “inform, educate, and entertain” the Teso community.
The newspaper, with over 1,000 copies printed and distributed at the event, will help promote literacy, share inspiring local stories, and generate funds for education projects through sales at UGX 1,000 per copy.
Emorimor called upon the people of Teso to support and read the paper, describing it as “the voice of Teso’s progress and a bridge between culture and modernity.”
The event showcased not only cultural pride but also international cooperation. Dignitaries from different nations commended the Emorimor for his visionary leadership and commitment to education, peace, and unity.
Representatives from the Swati Kingdom and Kenya’s Iteso Council of Elders reaffirmed their cultural ties and pledged to continue collaborating with the Iteso Cultural Union.
Government officials present also lauded the Emorimor for complementing national development goals through education and cultural empowerment.
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