President Yoweri Museveni has called on cultural institutions across the country to take an active role in eradicating poverty and fostering self-reliance among Ugandans. This message was delivered by Vice President H.E Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo during the Silver Jubilee coronation celebrations of His Royal Highness Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor. The event took place on Wednesday, 7th August 2024, at Achilet Primary School playgrounds in Tororo District.
“I congratulate the Japadhola people on reaching this significant milestone. This event underscores the enduring legacy of the Padhola institutions, established under the NRM leadership.” President Museveni said
“The government has empowered cultural institutions to contribute significantly to the development of their people. We have long championed poverty eradication and self-reliance through initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). It is imperative that all Ugandans actively participate in the money economy.” the President added.
The President urged stakeholders in cultural institutions to become advocates of the NRM’s vision of hard work and self-reliance. He emphasized the need for fostering peaceful living, combating corruption, and cultivating integrity among the populace. Additionally, he called for youth engagement in government Skilling programs to ensure the country’s future prosperity.
Vice President Alupo echoed the importance of unity and Pan-Africanism. “This ceremony speaks volumes, a clear demonstration that colonial boundaries have been dismantled. We must embrace Pan-Africanism, leveraging our collective market of over 1.4 billion people.”
She emphasized that unity is essential for development, urging Ugandans to focus on common goals rather than divisions. “Unity is paramount. It is the cornerstone of development. Let’s focus on what unites us.”
Alupo also pointed to the importance of practical politics that yield tangible results for the people. She urged leaders to utilize programs like PDM and Emyooga to uplift their communities and concentrate on transformative changes that benefit the region.
The NRM Secretary General, Rt Hon Richard Todwong highlighted the critical role of cultural institutions in society’s development. “The NRM party is proud to grant freedom to cultural and religious institutions, recognizing their vital role alongside the government. Religion, culture, and government are the three pillars upon which society stands. These pillars must work together in harmony.”
Todwong stressed that through cultural institutions, messages of wealth creation can effectively reach families. He noted that both religion and government derive their strength from the family, which serves as the bedrock of culture. He congratulated the Japadhola people for their cultural achievements and expressed gratitude for their collaboration with the government.
Representing the Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development Hon. Betty Amongi, the Minister of State for Disability, Hon. Asamo Hellen Grace emphasized the importance of cultural identity and the role of youth in driving development. “A nation without culture lacks identity. Let’s leverage Uganda’s diverse cultures to promote positive values and practices that drive development.”
The Minister called for collaboration between the government and cultural institutions to ensure the NRM manifesto is fully implemented, particularly in fighting corruption. She encouraged young people to innovate and tackle youth unemployment, and stressed the importance of restoring fathers to their familial roles, using cultural structures to unite families.
His Royal Highness Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his leadership and guidance. “I am grateful to the President for his guidance, which has led to the achievements we’ve secured. By following his advice, the Japadhola have proven that we can serve our nation in various capacities.”
In attendance were the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth, Member of Parliament, Tororo District, Hon. Sarah Opendi, religious leaders among others.
