Calls for unity, reconciliation, and collective development among the people of Lango dominated the burial ceremony of the late Rose Ogwang, wife of Ogora Clan Head Canon Richard Ogwang Odyero, held on Friday in Ibuje, Apac District.
The deceased passed away on Wednesday, 29 October 2025 after a prolonged illness.
Representing the Paramount Chief of Lango, Dr. Eng. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, the Prime Minister of Lango Cultural Foundation, Professor Willy Okullo, delivered a heartfelt message urging the Lango community to overcome past divisions and work together for the region’s development.
He emphasized that unity remains the foundation for implementing government programmes and achieving long-term prosperity.
“The time for division is over. We must walk together as one people if we are to see meaningful progress,” Okullo said.
The Government Chief Whip, Denis Hamson Obua, conveyed condolences from President Museveni to Canon Ogwang and his family. On behalf of the President, he contributed Shs 10 million to support the bereaved family.
Obua lauded Canon Ogwang’s unwavering service and loyalty to the NRM government, recognizing his decades of dedication to public service and community leadership.
“Canon Ogwang has been a loyal servant of his country and community. The President mourns with you in this difficult moment,” Obua said.
Obua, who also serves as the NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, made a symbolic analogy during his speech.
“An immature mango is green, while a ripe one is yellow — just like the NRM color. Let’s choose maturity, development, and progress,” he said.
He highlighted government achievements in the region, including the tarmacking of the Rwekunye–Apac–Lira Road, as evidence of ongoing development under President Museveni’s leadership.
The Bishop of the Diocese of West Lango, Rt. Rev. Julius Ceaser Nina, praised Canon Ogwang for his resilience and faith amid personal loss. He described the late Rose Ogwang as a devoted Christian and a pillar of the Mothers Union, whose compassion and service touched many lives.
“Rose was a woman of faith and compassion. Her works in the church and community will not be forgotten,” Nina said.
In his sermon, The Bishop of Lango Diocese, Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa drew comfort from 1 Thessalonians 4:13, encouraging mourners to find hope in the promise of eternal life. In a lighter moment, he appealed to Nebbi RDC Robert Abak, humorously known as the “Rain Controller” of the Ogora clan, to ensure clear weather for the burial service.
In his tribute, Lango Diocese Bishop Emeritus Alfred Acur Okodi described her as “a compassionate and dedicated woman whose faith and service strengthened both the church and community.”
Kwania District LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Ogwal Adyebo used the platform to challenge divisive politics in the region, urging citizens to make voting decisions based on leadership quality rather than party affiliation.
“If you say you won’t vote for someone because of their party—whether UPC or NRM—then you are making a mistake. Choose leaders who can deliver development,” he said.
Echoing the call for mature politics, Lira City Mayor Sam Atul warned voters to make choices that promote progress, not regression.
“We don’t want leadership that takes us back to the dark days. Let’s elect leaders who can move Lango forward,” he said.
Apac District Woman Member of Parliament Betty Engola expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Rose Ogwang, recalling her as an ardent supporter who assisted expectant mothers through her clinic’s outreach initiatives.
Born on 25 December 1962, Rose Ogwang dedicated her life to education, faith, and community service.
She began her education at Amuda Primary School (1971–1977) and later trained as a teacher at Ngora BKC (1978–1979). Her teaching career included service at Ambalal Primary School, VH Public School, and Ibuje Primary School before she transitioned into medical work to continue serving her community.
She is survived by her husband, Canon Richard Ogwang Odyero, a respected servant of God, clan head of the Ogora, and former Resident District Commissioner who served in several districts across Uganda.