The Kumam-speaking community in eastern Uganda has initiated a campaign to raise funds for the purchase of a Toyota Harrier to enhance the mobility of their cultural leader, Raphael Otaya. The elites within the community have established a WhatsApp group to collect contributions, aiming to reach a target of UGX 68 million.
The Kumam cultural cabinet has approved the fundraising initiative, intending to involve the entire Kumam-speaking community in the contribution drive. Otaya, installed as the first Kumam cultural head in 2022, has been serving since breaking away from the Teso community.
While it is customary for the government to provide vehicles to cultural leaders, Otaya did not receive one initially. However, President Yoweri Museveni pledged to purchase a vehicle for Otaya during his visit to Gen. Peter Elwelu’s residence in December of the previous year.
Cultural Prime Minister Samuel Eyenga expressed that, despite the government’s commitment, the community decided to launch the initiative out of love and respect for their cultural leader. The fundraising campaign is seen as an opportunity for the Kumam people to actively contribute to providing a vehicle for Otaya’s ease of movement.
The Kumam community, previously part of the Iteso, opted for independence due to language differences. Eyenga, representing the Kumam community, highlighted that they are the majority in Soroti district and city. The Kumam are scattered across the Kyoga belt, particularly in Amolatar district, and have a substantial presence in Kyoga County.
Eyenga emphasized that the Kumam have 225 clans, with an estimated population of one million people. The funds for the vehicle purchase drive are being collected through a designated MOMO account, with the hope of reaching the set target.
At the end of the month, the cultural cabinet plans to inform the general assembly of clan heads about the initiative. Eyenga praised the dedication of the community members, citing the collection of UGX 15 million in pledges and cash so far.
Raphael Otaya, born in 1957, is a retired teacher holding a diploma in teacher education from Kyambogo University. Born in present-day Merok parish in Katine sub-county, Soroti district, he assumed the role of the Kumam cultural leader in 2022.
