Gulu City, Uganda: The Acholi Cultural Institution, Ker-Kwaro Acholi, has announced plans to celebrate the 60th birthday of Acholi Paramount Chief Rwot David Onen Acana II with a major charity event aimed at supporting girl child education in the Acholi Sub-region.
The celebration is scheduled for March 24 at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City and will include cultural performances, community engagements, and a fundraising dinner to support education initiatives for girls in northern Uganda.
According to Kenneth Oketta, Chairman of the Organising Committee, the celebration is intended not only to honour the Acholi cultural leader but also to mobilise resources to improve educational opportunities for girls in the region.
“This is not just a personal milestone for His Royal Highness, but a call for the community to invest in the future of Acholi girls,” Oketta said while addressing reporters.
He revealed that proceeds from a fundraising dinner at Acholi Inn Hotel will support the construction of girls’ dormitories at Kitgum High School and Padibe Girls Secondary School, as well as changing rooms for girls at Paibona Primary School in Gulu District.
“Education is the cornerstone of development. This initiative will ensure that girls in Acholi have safe and conducive spaces to learn and grow,” Oketta said.
Organisers say the event will also recognise the contribution of Rwot Acana II in promoting peacebuilding, cultural preservation and reconciliation in the Acholi sub-region following decades of conflict.
“Rwot David Onen Acana II has been a pillar of peacebuilding, conflict resolution and cultural preservation in the region. Honouring him also honours the community’s journey towards stability and progress,” Oketta said.
Speaking ahead of the celebrations, Rwot Acana II expressed appreciation for the support from his subjects and reiterated the importance of investing in education for the region’s young girls.
“I am humbled by the love and support of my people. This celebration is not about me alone; it is about empowering our young girls and building a stronger Acholi sub-region,” he said.
The organising committee has called upon members of the public, development partners and well-wishers to contribute towards the education initiative.
“Your support will transform the lives of hundreds of girls. Every contribution, big or small, is an investment in our future leaders,” Oketta emphasised.
The event is expected to attract cultural leaders, government officials, community members and development partners, highlighting the role of Ker Kwaro Acholi in promoting both cultural heritage and social development in northern Uganda.
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