His Royal Highness Papa Emorimor III, Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng, has unveiled an ambitious plan to strengthen the economic foundation of the Iteso people through savings and credit cooperatives, positioning them as engines for sustainable development and poverty eradication.
Speaking during celebrations to mark his third coronation anniversary at Emokori Grounds in Bukedea District on Saturday, Emorimor emphasized that collective financial empowerment was the surest way to uplift communities.
“Our goal is to create a sustainable economic structure that empowers every Iteso to participate in development. Through savings and credit cooperatives, we can build a stronger financial base to support local enterprises and eradicate poverty,” he said.
The anniversary celebration drew thousands of people from across Teso and other regions — including cultural leaders, government officials, religious figures, and politicians — who gathered to honor the Emorimor’s leadership and cultural stewardship.
In a message delivered by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni applauded the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) for its continued efforts in promoting unity, cultural preservation, and national cohesion.
Museveni, in his message, underscored the significance of cultural institutions in driving socio-economic transformation.
“Cultural institutions are key partners in the national development process. By promoting moral values, unity, and self-reliance, they complement government efforts toward achieving prosperity for all,” the President said.
The President also commended the progress registered in Teso in areas such as education, infrastructure, and agriculture, urging the community to build on these milestones to achieve inclusive development.
Representing the President, Speaker Among called for continued harmony among the Iteso, warning against divisive politics and emphasizing cooperation as the foundation for progress.
“We must stand together as one people, regardless of our political or religious affiliations. Development can only thrive where there is peace and unity,” she stated.
During the festivities, Among launched two new initiatives under the Iteso Cultural Union — the Akaliat Development Foundation Limited and Akolong Newspaper — both aimed at improving livelihoods and information flow within the community. The Foundation will prioritize projects targeting youth and women empowerment, entrepreneurship, and local economic initiatives.
Emorimor Emolot outlined his vision to mobilize at least 20,000 members under a cooperative society, a move he said would pave the way for establishing a community-owned bank. He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with government and development partners to advance the economic and cultural aspirations of the Iteso people.