Kenya's Ruto backs stronger cultural, economic ties among Ateker
Stephen Ojacor, information minister of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), said the meeting underscored Ruto's commitment to initiatives aimed at uplifting the Iteso people, particularly those living in eastern Kenya.
President William Ruto and Iteso Paramount Chief Paul Sande Emolot in a group photo. (Courtesy photos)
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Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto has held discussions with Iteso paramount chief Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot and leaders of the Ateker communities on strengthening development cooperation, cultural ties and economic prospects across East Africa.
The meeting, held at State Lodge Eldoret on August 29, 2026, highlighted the potential of cultural institutions to foster unity, peace, economic growth and regional integration.
The Ateker consist of interrelated communities in East Africa, including the Karamojong, Iteso, Jie, Lango and Kumam from Uganda, as well as the Turkana, Toposa and Nyangatom from Kenya, South Sudan and Ethiopia. The communities share a common ancestry, language and cultural traditions.
Kenyan President William Ruto after being installed as an Iteso elder. Looking on are Iteso paramount chief Emolot and other leaders.
Much of the discussion centred on the development of Ateker communities, which span national borders in four countries. Leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation and strengthen connections among communities with shared histories, cultures and traditions.
Stephen Ojacor, information minister of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), said the meeting underscored Ruto's commitment to initiatives aimed at uplifting the Iteso people, particularly those living in eastern Kenya.
He said the engagement provided a platform for ICU leaders to share their vision for the development, unity and empowerment of the Iteso and the wider Ateker communities.
Ojacor said the discussions also explored opportunities for cross-border trade and regional economic cooperation to boost the Teso economy and broaden opportunities for local communities.
The discussions are expected to renew focus on the economic potential of the Ateker region, particularly through enhanced collaboration between communities and governments across borders.
The Ateker people have long maintained strong cultural, historical and social ties despite the challenges posed by modern national boundaries. Cultural leaders increasingly stress the importance of converting these shared connections into opportunities for peace, trade, tourism, investment and social growth.
The meeting between Ruto and Emolot also highlighted the role of the Iteso Cultural Union in preserving and promoting the identity, unity and developmental aspirations of the Iteso people.
Emolot expressed gratitude to Ruto for the opportunity to meet, describing it as the first meeting between his team and a Kenyan president since 1994.
Emolot emphasised the role of cultural leaders in guiding and advising their communities to uphold good values, cultural norms and a spirit of diligence.
He drew on experiences from Uganda, sharing how cultural and religious leaders encouraged the Iteso to leave the ‘bush’ and engage with government initiatives for the benefit of future generations.
Under the leadership of the Iteso paramount chief, the Union has been at the forefront of cultural revival, youth empowerment, education, economic development, environmental conservation and strengthening ties within the Ateker communities.
President Ruto and Iteso Paramount Chief Paul Sande Emolot in a group photo.
Ruto's commitment to attend the fourth coronation anniversary of Emolot prompted a change in schedule, shifting the celebrations from the originally scheduled August 22-24, 2026, to August 29-31, 2026, to accommodate his attendance.
As preparations continue, the high-level meeting underscores the growing recognition of the Ateker agenda at top leadership levels in East Africa.
For the Iteso Cultural Union, the engagement represents an opportunity to strengthen its role in cultural diplomacy, regional unity and people-centred development.
During the meeting, the Iteso cultural chief honoured Ruto as an elder of the Iteso community, bestowing upon him the name ‘Ojokotau’, meaning "good samaritan". Following the installation, Ruto received traditional attire, a shield, a spear and a stool.
Emolot was joined at the meeting by Toto Akaliait (queen) Juliet Among Atomeileng, along with other senior leaders and officials from the Iteso Cultural Union.
Ruto announced a Ksh4 billion (about sh29.1 billion) investment in a new smart city in Malaba, which is expected to include 2,000 affordable housing units and amenities aimed at boosting local employment, attracting investment and enhancing the town's appearance.
During the 2022 General Election, Kenyans moved away from tribal politics, and with the establishment of a Broad-Based Government in 2024, Ruto expressed confidence that voters will prioritise leaders' development achievements over empty promises and tribal ties in the upcoming election.
He urged voters to focus on national progress rather than divisive rhetoric.
Teso North MP Oku Kaunya, speaking on behalf of the delegation, affirmed their unified support for Ruto and their commitment to collaborate with him as the next election approaches, stating, “We have chosen unity, partnership, and participation in building Kenya with Your Excellency.”
Teso South MP Mary Emase expressed community backing for Ruto's development initiatives, while leaders anticipated the start of construction on the Butula-Nambale-Amukura-Kocholia road and assured their united support for the president's re-election next year.