President Museveni has contributed Shs500 million towards the construction of the Ere Iteso Palace, a major cultural initiative spearheaded by the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU).
The contribution was announced during the palace’s groundbreaking ceremony and fundraising launch held on Saturday at the ICU offices, with the President’s message delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo.
According to ICU Prime Minister Andrew Ocole, the ambitious cultural project is expected to cost approximately Shs53 billion upon completion.
President Museveni described the palace as “a monumental project that signifies a move in the right direction” and commended the Emorimor Paapa Iteso, Paul Sande Emolot, for his leadership in strengthening the Iteso community.
“I commend the Emorimor of Teso, His Royal Highness Paul Sande Emolot, for the great work he is doing among his subjects and within the communities,” Museveni said, highlighting the ongoing cooperation between the government and the cultural institution under the National Resistance Movement leadership.
Museveni emphasized that the palace represents more than just infrastructure; it is a symbol of collective effort to preserve the history, identity, and traditions of the Iteso people.
“It is not merely the construction of bricks and mortar, but an embodiment of the collective aspiration to preserve and celebrate our traditional history and identity,” he said.
The palace is expected to serve as a cultural hub where future generations can learn about ancestral values, experience traditional arts, and strengthen community ties.
It is also anticipated to boost Uganda’s tourism sector, attracting visitors and promoting socio-economic development.
The President stressed that the project is enabled by the peace and security established under NRM leadership and reiterated his commitment to African integration, which he said will bring economic and strategic benefits.
He also highlighted the role of culture in preserving heritage, fostering unity, and building resilience among communities.
“The construction of the Emorimor Palace is a means of strengthening the core of the Iteso culture, and we welcome it with great pleasure,” Museveni said. He further urged all stakeholders to contribute to the project and support the vision of cultural preservation and economic empowerment.
Vice President Alupo confirmed that Museveni’s Shs500 million was a direct donation to the palace’s project account, marking the first official contribution.
The Emorimor of Teso, Paul Sande Emolot, and Vice President Alupo have begun mobilizing additional resources from across the region to ensure the project’s completion.
Leaders of the Iteso Cultural Union expressed optimism that with unity among the Iteso people, they will successfully raise the necessary funds to realize the palace.