Museveni urges leaders to promote unity, cultural coexistence

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon cultural and political leaders to champion unity and foster cultural coexistence among the people they lead, emphasising that such efforts are essential for sustaining harmony and peace within communities.

He was represented by the Speaker of Parliament and National Resistance Movement (NRM) second national vice chairperson (female), Anita Annet Among, during the third coronation anniversary of Emorimor Papa Iteso Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng held on October 25, 2025, in Bukedea district.

President Museveni commended the Iteso Cultural Institution for preserving traditions while promoting peace and development.

He said that Uganda’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division, urging leaders to use their influence to unite citizens across cultural and political lines.

The President highlighted the importance of cultural institutions in promoting social cohesion and national identity.

He noted that when communities live together peacefully, it creates a stable environment for economic growth and development.

He further encouraged leaders to focus on education, poverty eradication, and youth empowerment as pillars for building a united and prosperous nation.

Emorimor Papa Iteso Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng blessing Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among upon her arrival.

“The strength of Uganda lies in its diversity,” President Museveni said in his message. “When our people embrace one another regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, we build a stronger and more peaceful country for all. Leaders must be at the forefront of this unity.”

In his message, the President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cultural institutions as partners in national transformation.

He called for continued collaboration between cultural leaders, political leaders, and the central government to ensure that the values of unity, respect, and coexistence remain deeply rooted in Ugandan society.

The event marked Emorimor’s third anniversary since his coronation on October 22, 2022. Since assuming leadership, he has focused on strengthening the cultural norms and values of the Iteso community.

In his remarks, Emorimor thanked President Museveni and the government for the support extended to the Iteso as a gazetted chiefdom. He noted that this year’s celebration centred on education for both boys and girls in Teso, especially those from marginalised families, as a way to curb increasing school dropouts and early marriages — a challenge affecting the entire subregion.

“Education remains the foundation of our future,” Emorimor said. “If we give every child, regardless of their background, a chance to learn, we will not only end poverty but also preserve the dignity and culture of our people.”

He requested the Speaker, as chief guest, to officially launch the Emorimor Education Fund Project, aimed at providing scholarships to children from humble backgrounds who struggle to access education.

Amidst thousands of people who turned up to witness the event, the gathering also saw the launch of the Akaliait Development Foundation (AKADEF), an initiative led by the Emorimor’s wife. The project seeks to support children, mothers, and the wider Teso community in various social and developmental areas.

“The goal of AKADEF is to restore the moral values that once defined our community,” the Emorimor’s wife said during the launch.

“We want to guide our young girls to make informed choices, uphold virtue, and understand that their future depends on discipline, education, and self-respect.”

Emorimor emphasised that the foundation will work closely with schools, parents, and community leaders to address rising cases of early sex, cohabitation, and the erosion of traditional values among the youth.