Herbert Okello lauded for reconciliation tournament in Agule, Ngora Counties

Pallisa (UG):- Communities in Agule County, Pallisa District, and Ngora County in Ngora District, ushered in 2025 with renewed unity and joy, thanks to a reconciliation football tournament organized by Mr Herbert Okudel, a hopeful candidate for Agule County MP in the 2026 general elections.

The match, held on January 1st, 2025, at Akisim Primary School in Pallisa, marked a turning point in healing relations between the two communities, which had been strained since 2022 due to a series of killings blamed on both sides.

The tournament brought together the best football teams from Agule and Ngora in a bid to restore peace and ignite a spirit of unity and purpose.

Speaking to the community at the match, Mr Okudel explained that the initiative was inspired by the need to address the socio-economic effects of the vendetta that had divided the communities. He emphasized the importance of love and neighbourly cooperation, drawing from biblical teachings.

“Football is a universal sport that brings people together regardless of their differences. The youth of Agule requested a Christmas Cup tournament, but due to time constraints, I decided to invite the Ngora team instead. I also respected the sitting MP, Hon. David Ochwa, who had reportedly planned a similar event, to avoid any misunderstanding,” Mr. Okudel said.

Community Leaders Praise Okudel’s Efforts

Rev. Abraham Osire, the technical advisor for Akisim FC, praised Mr. Okudel for his timely intervention and vision for youth development. “Mr Okudel is a focused young man with the potential to expose talented youth to outside clubs instead of just letting them play locally.”

“Agule needs a leader who nurtures talent, not politicians who give out balls for vote hunting. I pray that God touches the hearts of the people to elect such a person,” Rev. Osire added.

Gabriel Mujale, a player for Akisim FC, reflected on the match, noting that while Ngora won on penalty shootouts, the game was exciting and fostered camaraderie. He acknowledged missed opportunities but appreciated the overall experience.

For Ngora FC, Simon Okia commended the tournament’s role in fostering reconciliation. “What inspired me most was the friendship rehabilitation. Some leaders had withdrawn during the chaos between Agule and Ngora, leaving the RDCs to address the issues alone. Mr. Okudel stepped up where others didn’t,” Okia said.

A Community Reunited

Residents of both communities expressed gratitude for the reconciliation initiative. Lambert Okiria, a football enthusiast, praised God for inspiring Mr. Okudel to organize the event.

“The most important achievement is reconciliation with our Ngora brothers. Previously, we couldn’t engage players from Ngora due to the strained relationship, but now there’s hope for collaboration,” Okiria said.

Mrs. Akol Name of Chelekura Sub-county echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the initiative restored connections between families in Agule and Ngora. “We have relatives in Ngora, but we couldn’t visit or mourn with them before. This tournament has changed that,” she said.

With this act of unity and reconciliation, Mr. Herbert Okudel has not only won the hearts of many but also demonstrated the power of leadership grounded in vision, compassion, and community development.