KATAKWI: Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Rose Alupo Epel has met with clan leaders from Usuk County and Ngariam County at her residence in Oigo Imomwa, Aketa Parish, Ongongoja Sub County, Katakwi District.
During the meeting, Alupo expressed gratitude to Simon Ojaman, advisor to the Iteso Cultural Union Elders Council, for his visionary thoughts in keeping the Ateker people connected.
Alupo acknowledged Ojaman’s initiative in calling for the meeting to inform clan leaders about government programs and strategies to combat poverty at household and individual levels.
She encouraged them to continue their work, noting that while there may not be a salary, many clan leaders contribute personally to facilitate their work.
The Vice President highlighted several development projects in Katakwi, including improved road infrastructure, which has reduced travel time between Katakwi and Soroti from over five hours to just 30 minutes.
She also mentioned the use of a ferry on Lake Bisina and the rehabilitation of the railway line from Busia to Congo, which will facilitate the transportation of goods.
Alupo called on the Ateker people to promote unity, particularly between the Iteso and Karamojong communities, despite their historical differences.
She noted that ongoing construction of cement factories in Karamoja would provide employment opportunities for the local population.
The Vice President encouraged clan leaders to spread the message of love and unity among the Ateker people and to promote modern farming techniques, such as keeping heifers for milk production and croilers for egg production, which can improve family livelihoods and income.
Alupo also emphasized the importance of education, encouraging clan leaders to promote the enrollment of children in school, now that educational resources are more accessible in villages.
She noted that educating a child improves livelihoods and opportunities.
The Vice President highlighted the President’s initiative to construct two specialized hospitals in the country, one of which will be located in Katakwi District, to serve the local population with advanced medical care.
She assured the clan leaders that she would ensure the project is not diverted from Katakwi and warned against attempts to bribe community members during elections.
Alupo, also the district woman MP concluded by encouraging clan leaders to promote government development programs, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, Youth Fund, and Women Fund, which aim to empower the local community financially.
