Gulu, Uganda: The Minister of State for Northern Uganda, Hon Dr. Kenneth Omona, has called on Acholi cultural leaders to take the front line in driving transformation efforts aimed at combating poverty in the region.
Speaking at the Office of the Prime Minister during the graduation of 47 returnees from the Central African Republic who completed a six-month rehabilitation program, Dr. Omona urged cultural leaders to inspire change within their communities.
“We need our cultural leaders to take the lead in preaching transformation and empowering our communities,” Dr. Omona said. “It’s disheartening to see Acholi being labeled as the poorest, yet we have a rich cultural heritage and leaders who can drive change.”
He emphasized the need for unity among stakeholders to reverse the narrative surrounding the Acholi sub-region. “It’s time for us to rewrite the story of the Acholi sub-region. Let us join hands, harness our collective potential, and propel our region to new heights,” Dr. Omona declared.
The Northern region remains the area with the highest multidimensional poverty in Uganda, with Acholi, West Nile, and Lango sub-regions recording the worst statistics, according to national reports.
Rwot David Onen Acana II, the Paramount Chief of Acholi, echoed the minister’s call, noting that cultural institutions have taken the initiative to engage communities through modern agricultural training to promote food security and sustainable livelihoods.
“Our hands are tied by the lack of resources,” Rwot Acana said. “We envision a prosperous Acholi, but to get there, we need partners to support our efforts in educating and equipping our people to leave poverty behind.”
He appealed to stakeholders and Acholi Members of Parliament to actively support culture-led poverty eradication initiatives. “We need your backing to amplify our efforts. Together, we can create a brighter future for our people,” he emphasized.
Joel Opiyo, a resident of Gulu City, noted the often-overlooked potential of cultural institutions in fostering development. “Many of our leaders underestimate the power of culture,” Opiyo said. “By embracing and respecting our cultural heritage, leaders can promote unity and drive prosperity.”
He criticized some leaders for undermining rather than empowering cultural institutions, accusing them of greed and disrespect.
Major General Felix Busizoori, the Division Commander of the Fourth Division, urged cultural institutions to also address the persistent issue of land wrangling, which he said undermines peace and development in the region.
“As you strive to uplift your communities and eradicate poverty, we urge you to also address the pressing issue of land wrangling,” Gen. Busizoori said. “Creating awareness and promoting peaceful coexistence among local communities is critical.”
Uganda’s Northern and Eastern regions continue to face some of the highest poverty rates nationally, with Karamoja topping multidimensional poverty indicators, followed by sub-regions such as Acholi, West Nile, Lango, and Teso.
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