By Stephen Ojacor
October 22, 2024 will remain a historic day in the cultural calendar of the Iteso community as thousands gathered at the Katakwi Boma Grounds to celebrate the second coronation anniversary of Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot, the Paramount Chief of the Iteso.
Themed “Youth Socio-Economic Empowerment for the Nurturing of Iteso Cultural Legacy ”, the event was not only a commemoration of the monarch’s reign but also a platform to reflect on the role of young people in shaping and preserving cultural heritage for generations to come.
The colorful celebration attracted dignitaries from across Uganda and beyond. Among the distinguished guests were African kings and queens who traveled from different regions and countries to stand in solidarity with the Iteso community and to honor Papa Emorimor, whose leadership has been hailed as visionary, unifying, and deeply rooted in tradition.
A Leader for the Times
Since his enthronement in 2022, Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot has worked tirelessly to restore cultural pride among the Iteso, while positioning culture as a catalyst for development.
His leadership has bridged tradition with modern aspirations, particularly focusing on issues that resonate with the younger generation, education, entrepreneurship, cultural identity, and environmental stewardship.
The second coronation anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on his achievements, the challenges facing the Iteso people, and the vision for the years ahead. By choosing youth socio-economic empowerment as the central theme, Papa Emorimor underscored his belief that the cultural legacy of the Iteso cannot be preserved unless the youth, who make up the majority of the population, are engaged meaningfully in economic and cultural activities.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The day began with cultural performances from different Iteso clans, showcasing the rich traditions of music, dance, and storytelling that define the community. The vibrant displays reminded attendees of the Iteso’s deep-rooted values of unity, resilience, and creativity.
Papa Emorimor was led into the Boma Grounds in a majestic procession, greeted with cheers from subjects and dignitaries alike. Symbolic rituals highlighted the continuity of the Iteso cultural institution and its enduring role in guiding the community through changing times.
African monarchs and cultural leaders who attended emphasized the importance of solidarity among traditional institutions across the continent.
They noted that cultural heritage is not merely about preserving the past, but about providing guidance and identity in the present, especially for young Africans navigating globalization.
The Central Role of the Youth
In his keynote address, Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot called on young people to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and education as tools for empowerment.
He stressed that a strong cultural identity must go hand in hand with economic independence if the Iteso legacy is to thrive.“Our youth are the custodians of tomorrow. If we fail to empower them today, we risk losing the values and traditions that define us as a people. Let us equip them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to prosper, for it is only then that our culture will endure,” he declared.
Workshops and side sessions organized during the celebration focused on skills development, agribusiness, digital innovation, and cultural industries. Youth leaders also presented their visions for a modern, prosperous Iteso society that does not abandon its cultural roots.
African Solidarity in Katakwi
The attendance of kings, queens, and traditional leaders from across Africa gave the anniversary a continental dimension. Their presence was symbolic of the interconnectedness of African cultures and the shared responsibility to safeguard traditions in the face of global cultural homogenization.
Many of the visiting monarchs praised Papa Emorimor’s efforts to integrate youth empowerment into cultural leadership, noting that such approaches could serve as a model for other communities. They also emphasized the role of culture in fostering unity, peace, and development across Africa.
The delegation of top royals from the diaspora was led by the Chairman AIDO His Highness Paul Eganda, while the Ugandan Kings were led by the King of the Baluli Isabarongo Mwatyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, and Won Ateker Papa Raphael Otaya the Kumam cultural leader.
Top Karebian and African Kings and queens in attendance included: Her Royal Majesty Queen Vickilextar Okang of the Omanye Kingdom in Ghana, Queen Dr. Hilary Brown Acom II, HRH Queen Jenny Abbensetts Ikatekit, Queen Mother Hon. Millicent Odhiambo Nabura, HRM Dr. Makorani -O- Mungase VII of the Pokemon Royal Kingdom and H. M Queen Cynthia Khumalo Mzilikazi III of South Africa.
Government and Stakeholder Support
The Ugandan government, represented by senior officials, reaffirmed its recognition of cultural institutions as partners in development. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between the state, cultural leaders, and development agencies in addressing the challenges facing communities, particularly unemployment among youth and the erosion of traditional values.
Development partners also showcased programs that align with the event’s theme, including support for vocational training, environmental conservation, and cultural tourism.
Katakwi District officials emphasized the need to leverage culture as a driver for local development and tourism, pointing to the growing interest in Iteso traditions both within Uganda and abroad.
A Vision for the Future
The second coronation anniversary was more than a celebration, it was a call to action. Papa Emorimor’s leadership has placed the Iteso cultural institution at the heart of community development, reminding people that culture is not static but dynamic, capable of adapting to modern realities while retaining its essence.For the youth, the message was clear: they must take charge of their destiny by embracing opportunities in education, business, and cultural innovation.
For the Iteso people, the event was a reminder of their unity and resilience. And for Africa, the gathering was an affirmation that traditional institutions remain vital pillars of identity and progress.
As the sun set over Katakwi Boma Grounds, the celebrations ended on a hopeful note, with renewed commitment to nurturing the Iteso cultural legacy and empowering the youth who will carry it forward. The anniversary served as both a tribute to Papa Emorimor’s reign and a blueprint for a brighter, culturally grounded future.
