Kwania District, Uganda: Retired Major Fred Gawera has officially been installed as Awitong (Clan Head) of the Okada-Meri Clan, marking a new chapter defined by calls for unity, justice, and inclusive development.
The ceremony, held Tuesday at Aduku Town Council, drew clan members, cultural leaders, and local officials in a renewed show of solidarity after years of internal divisions. It was presided over by Mr Benjamin Okii on behalf of the Lango Cultural Foundation.
Gawera replaces Jimmy Anthony Oyuku, a retired Superintendent of Police who stepped down in 2023, ushering in a transition period that saw Gawera serve as interim leader before his unopposed election in January 2026.
In his inaugural address, Awitong Gawera struck a reconciliatory tone, calling on all clan members—including those from rival factions—to unite. “This is a moment for healing. I call upon all members, wherever they are, to return home and join hands in rebuilding our clan,” he said.
“We cannot move forward when we are divided. Unity is our strength and our future.”
Gawera pledged to prioritise peacebuilding, transparency, and socio-economic transformation, drawing on his experience as a retired UPDF officer and civil engineer trained in the United States. “Leadership is service. My duty is to ensure every voice is heard—elders, women, and the youth alike,” he added.
Mr Okii emphasised the need for justice-driven leadership, particularly in resolving land disputes that have strained families.
“Clan leadership must stand firm in defending justice. Land disputes should not destroy families,” he said. “We must protect widows, orphans, and the vulnerable. Culture must be a shield, not a weapon.”
Hope and Expectations from the Community
Clan members expressed optimism, but also high expectations for the new leadership. Elder Okello Peter described the transition as an opportunity to restore harmony, while Auma Grace, a widow, called for urgent intervention in land injustices affecting vulnerable groups.
“Young people must not be left behind. We want skills, jobs, and a voice in decision-making,” said youth representative Ocen James.
Local trader Akello Rose linked peace to economic growth, noting that stability is key for business, while teacher Oyet Michael described the moment as a defining opportunity for the clan’s future.
A Leader Shaped by Service
Born in 1964, Gawera brings decades of leadership experience, having served in the UPDF from 1984 to 2022.
He currently heads Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) in Kwania District, a role that has kept him closely engaged in community transformation and livelihoods support.
His unopposed election signalled broad confidence in his leadership during a critical period of rebuilding within the clan.
As traditional drums echoed and elders offered blessings, the ceremony symbolised more than a leadership change, it marked a renewed commitment to unity.
For the Okada-Meri Clan, the task ahead now lies in translating promises into tangible progress. “The work begins today,” Gawera said. “Together, we will build a stronger, united, and proud Okada-Meri.”
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
