Two years on, Cecilia Ogwal’s impact still felt in Dokolo

Dokolo, Uganda: Two years after the passing of ex- Dokolo Woman Member of Parliament, Cecilia Atim Ogwal, her legacy of service and community empowerment continues to shape lives across the Northern Uganda district and the wider Lango sub-region.

At the heart of this renewed momentum is Cecilia’s daughter, Dr Rosemary Alwoch Ogwal, who is spearheading a youth-focused initiative under the Cecilia Ogwal Foundation aimed at transforming communities through grassroots football and mentorship.

Launched at Dokolo District headquarters, the initiative is breathing new life into local communities by equipping football teams, reviving dormant competitions, and creating structured platforms for youth engagement.

“This is about continuing a legacy of service,” Dr Alwoch said. “My mother believed deeply in the power of young people. Through football, we are giving them not just a game, but a future.”

For years, grassroots football in Lango had declined due to limited funding, lack of equipment, and reduced participation.

But the new intervention is reversing that trend, restoring hope among young people and reconnecting communities.

Dozens of local teams have already received football kits, boots, and training equipment—resources many had long gone without. “Some of these boys have been training without proper gear for years,” Dr. Alwoch noted. “When you give them the right tools, you are also giving them confidence and dignity.”

The revival of local tournaments has emerged as a key pillar of the programme, bringing back a sense of identity and unity.

“These competitions are not just about winning,” she explained. “They bring people together, help identify talent, and rebuild the social fabric of our communities.”

Across Dokolo and neighbouring districts, match days are once again drawing crowds. “When football returns, the whole village comes alive,” a community elder said.

The initiative goes beyond sport, embedding mentorship, discipline, and leadership training among young people.

“We are using football as a tool to teach life skills,” Dr. Alwoch said. “Not every child will become a professional player, but every child can become a responsible citizen.”

Young participants say the programme is already making a difference. “Football keeps us busy and away from bad influences,” one youth player said. “Now we also get guidance and support. It gives us hope.”

Observers say the initiative reflects Cecilia Ogwal’s long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and regional development.

“My mother served with passion and integrity. We want to keep that flame alive by investing in the next generation,” Dr. Alwoch said.

Local leaders believe the programme could contribute to tackling youth unemployment and social challenges. “When you invest in young people, you invest in peace and development,” one leader noted.

With growing support and visible impact, the Cecilia Ogwal Foundation plans to expand the programme across more districts in Lango. “We are just getting started. Our vision is to build a strong, sustainable system that nurtures talent and transforms lives,” Dr. Alwoch said.