Vice President Jessica Alupo has praised the Ateker community for preserving their vibrant culture and using it as a platform for reflection and progress.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Ateker Festival, Ms Alupo, who was represented by Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development Betty Amongi, described the event as a significant milestone in advancing prosperity for the Ateker people.
“This festival has provided a great opportunity for the Ateker to reflect on many aspects of their culture and development. The mission must now focus on achieving prosperity for all Ateker communities,” she emphasised.
VP Alupo highlighted the importance of unity and strategic security as essential pillars for community transformation.
“We must deliberately work toward ensuring strategic security and fostering unity among ourselves. This will enable us to overcome challenges and collectively move forward,” she stated.
She praised the festival as a “flowered step” in promoting the Ateker community’s mission and aspirations, adding that it served as a bridge between cultural preservation and modern development.
VP Alupo underscored the role of infrastructure development in boosting connectivity and economic empowerment.
She noted that improved infrastructure would enhance trade and access to services, creating opportunities for growth within Ateker communities.
“The development of infrastructure is critical in connecting us and empowering our people economically. We must take these steps seriously to transform our livelihoods,” she remarked.
The Vice President also encouraged Ateker communities in Uganda to actively participate in government programs aimed at wealth creation.
She urged them to utilize initiatives such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga to improve their incomes and standards of living.
“Ateker people should seize opportunities provided by government programs to create wealth and build a better future. These programs are designed to empower you economically, and it is up to us to take advantage of them,” she urged.
The Ateker Festival, celebrated annually, is a vibrant cultural event that unites Ateker communities from Uganda and neighboring countries, including the Iteso, Turkana, and Karimojong.
It serves as a platform for cultural exchange, unity, and discussions on development.
As the festival concluded, the Vice President’s representative reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation and development in the region.
Participants were encouraged to embrace unity, strive for prosperity, and make the most of available opportunities to uplift their communities.
The festival featured cultural dances, dialogues on development, and exhibitions showcasing the rich heritage of the Ateker people.
It also highlighted the role of culture as a catalyst for economic and social transformation.