Gov't Allocates UGX 2.3bn for Ateker Reunion

The government has allocated 2.3 billion shillings for a three-day Ateker Reunion in Teso, marking a significant cultural event for the community.       

This year's reunion will be held in Soroti City, from November 27th to 29th, 2024, under the theme, "Celebrating Shared Heritage, Forging a Path towards Peace, Prosperity, and Cultural Resilience in Africa."        

The Ateker community comprises various ethnic groups across East Africa, including the Nyangatom in Ethiopia, the Toposa and Bari in South Sudan, and the Iteso, Kuria, Pokot, and Maasai in Kenya, alongside the Maasai in Tanzania and the Iteso, Pokot, Langi, and Karimojong in Uganda.             

During a press conference in Soroti City, Vice President Jessica Alupo Epel, who chairs the organizing committee, announced that multiple heads of state have been invited and have confirmed their attendance at the Ateker Reunion.

According to Alupo, heads of state from Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, are expected to participate. The event aims to boost tourism and cultural exchange while addressing pressing issues such as insecurity and poverty in the region.  

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Andrew Ocole, Prime Minister of the Iteso Cultural Union, said that the tourism sites have already been identified and gazetted.   Ocole noted that investors from South Africa have shown interest in the festival, particularly in minerals and broader investment opportunities in Teso and Uganda. "This activity is designed to promote the Ateker community to the world, as participants from around the globe have shown interest, which will ultimately benefit the common person and the country," Ocole stated.    

He emphasized that the allocation of 2.3 billion shillings for the festival is expected to boost local businesses and present Uganda positively on the international stage.   

Organizers anticipate that the festival will attract over 10,000 people from various countries, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and fostering unity among the Ateker-speaking communities.