By Stephen Ojacor
The Medical Mission Sisters (MMS) of the Archdiocese of Tororo have pledged their wholehearted support for the Akaliait Development Foundation (AKADEF), a new initiative championed by Her Royal Majesty Toto Akaliait Juliet Among, Queen of Teso.
The foundation, dedicated to uplifting girls, strengthening families, and combating gender-based violence, is scheduled for a grand launch on October 21, 2025, at Bukedea District Boma grounds.
During an evening visit to the Sisters’ community on Monday, Queen Juliet Among shared the vision and core objectives of AKADEF, emphasizing its focus on nurturing Teso’s girl children in cultural values, protecting their welfare, and empowering women across the region.
The meeting aimed to explore areas of partnership with the revered congregation ahead of the highly anticipated national launch, expected to attract prominent figures including First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Rev. Sister Anyait Mary, Superior of the Medical Mission Sisters in Tororo, welcomed the Queen and lauded the foundation’s mission as one that resonates deeply with the MMS charism of service, healing, and community transformation.“We embrace this initiative with joy,” Sister Anyait declared. “Our congregation is committed to promoting dignity, health, and justice. Supporting AKADEF’s goals of protecting girls, strengthening families, and confronting gender-based violence aligns perfectly with our calling. We pledge our total support from mobilizing communities to sharing our experience in healthcare and education.”
The Sisters’ promise of collaboration was met with enthusiasm by the Queen, who expressed gratitude for their readiness to walk side by side with the foundation. “The Medical Mission Sisters have long been pillars of hope and compassion in our communities,”
Queen Juliet Among said. “Their commitment gives AKADEF the strength to reach deeper into villages, to educate, heal, and inspire young girls to cherish their cultural heritage while pursuing their dreams.”Founded to address persistent social challenges such as poverty, gender-based violence, and limited access to education, AKADEF plans to implement programs that blend cultural preservation with modern empowerment strategies. These include mentorship for girls, economic empowerment projects for women, and family counseling services.
The foundation also intends to champion preventive health care and vocational training to enhance household resilience.Community members present at the meeting voiced optimism that the partnership will create lasting impact. “When the Medical Mission Sisters back a cause, the entire region listens,” said local catechist Peter Okurut. “Their network and credibility will help AKADEF reach more families and inspire collective action.”
The Medical Mission Sisters indicated that their support would extend to parish mobilization, guidance in maternal and child health initiatives, and training of local volunteers to sustain programs long after the launch.
The October 21 inauguration in Bukedea is expected to be a landmark event, drawing cultural leaders, government dignitaries, and development partners from across Uganda.
With the Medical Mission Sisters’ firm pledge of support, hopes are high that AKADEF will emerge as a transformative force for the Teso sub-region uplifting girls, strengthening families, and setting a powerful example of faith-driven social change.
