From Nwoya to Denmark: Todwong’s sister Aceng Awany finds love across cultures

It was pomp and glamour In Nwoya district as Richard Todwong’s sister Innocensia Aceng Awany was taken off the shelves by Jakob from Denmark.

The colourful introduction was a blend of tradition and modernity that left many locals speechless and others whispering on the cost of the bride's clothes, and the decoration.

 
During his speech Todwong, the NRM secretary general, apologised to Jakob and his relative for taking them through the long Acholi culture marriage rituals.

“We know you are tired because your events are usually one to two hours long. We over stretched you because we wanted to know that our daughter is in the right hands,” Todwong said.

 
Todwong revealed that in the Acholi culture, due diligence needs to be done before introduction and wedding.

“When you marry, you don't take the marriage with you. She remains behind for more training on how she needs to conduct herself while in her home,” Todwong explained.

 
According to the brother, Aceng’s marriage was their mother’s last wish. He also jokingly warned the groom before hand. “We are a very sensitive community and once you mistreat our daughter, we can come up to Denmark and ….(laughter). But we know that she is in safe hands,” Todwong said.

 
Catherine Lamwaka, the Woman MP of Omoro district, described Aceng’s heart as fragile.

 
Before the cutting of the cake, Jakob knelt and proposed to Aceng. She said “Yes”.

Richard Todwong gives a speech at the marriage ceremony