Lira City, Uganda: The family of the late Cecilia Atim Ogwal has honoured the Minister of Health and Lira City Woman Member of Parliament, Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, with a culturally symbolic victory goat, celebrating her decisive electoral triumph and sustained leadership in the Lango Sub-region.
The gesture, presented on Wednesday, was described by the family as a sign of deep appreciation for Dr Aceng’s consistent service delivery, particularly in healthcare transformation, infrastructure development and strengthening public service systems in Lira City.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Rosemary Alwoc said Dr. Aceng’s leadership mirrors the values and political legacy of the late Cecilia Atim Ogwal, one of Lango’s most revered political figures.
“We see in Dr. Aceng the same courage, resilience and commitment to the people that defined Cecilia Atim Ogwal’s leadership,” Dr. Alwoc said. “This goat is a cultural symbol of victory, respect and trust. It is our way of thanking her for standing with the people and delivering results.”
The family also urged Dr. Aceng to remain anchored in God-centred leadership, calling on her to lead with humility, faith and wisdom as she executes her renewed mandate. “Leadership is a calling,” the family noted. “We encourage her to always put God first, seek His guidance and serve with unity and a listening heart.”
The ceremony was marked by celebration and reflection, with family members expressing pride in Dr. Aceng’s achievements and what they described as continuity of development and stability for Lira City following her re-election.
They further commended voters for what they termed a clear endorsement of performance at the polls.
“The people of Lira City spoke loudly,” the family said. “They rewarded consistency, accountability and visible impact. This is a vote of confidence in results-based leadership.”
In her remarks, Dr. Aceng described the honour as deeply humbling, noting that it carried meaning far beyond political endorsement.
“I receive this gift with gratitude and humility,” Dr. Aceng said. “Coming from the family of the late Hon. Cecilia Atim Ogwal, this honour touches me deeply because she was a pillar of courage, truth and service in our region.”
She said the recognition renewed her sense of responsibility to serve the people with even greater dedication.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to the people of Lira City who trusted me again with their mandate,” she said. “I commit to working tirelessly to improve healthcare, infrastructure and opportunities for our people.”
Dr. Aceng also echoed the call for faith-guided leadership.
“Leadership without God lacks direction,” she said. “As I move forward, I will continue to seek God’s guidance so that every decision I make serves the common good.”
She paid tribute to the late Atim Ogwal, crediting her with shaping women’s leadership and political courage in Uganda.
“Mama Cecilia paved the way for many of us,” Dr. Aceng said. “Her voice for justice and equality still speaks. I am honoured to be associated with her legacy.”
As Lira City enters a new political term, the recognition from the Atim Ogwal family stands as both an endorsement and a reminder of the high expectations placed on leadership—anchored in faith, humility and tangible service to the people.
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