Karamoja, in northeastern Uganda, is now experiencing rapid development. The region, which was once neglected by colonial administrations, is now one of the richest regions in terms of mineral resources, with the recent discovery of oil in the Kadam Basin. This progress has largely been attributed to the efforts of President Museveni in establishing peace in the region.
While the region is witnessing significant development projects, it also faces challenges such as limited employment opportunities for natives, corruption, among others.
In order to address the interests of the Karimojong people and the Ateker community at large, the children of the late Lorika family have established a foundation aimed at being the voice of the voiceless in Karamoja and the wider Ateker community.
The foundation, registered as the Lorika Foundation, is in high gear preparing for its official launch soon.
It should be noted that the name Lorika is one of the most respected in Karamoja because Lorika was among the first Karimojong to work in the colonial government. Members of the family have also established successful business ventures, including the late Lorika Kodet, who owned several business enterprises; the late Naburi; and the late Mzee Asio Lorika, the first Karimojong minister during the regimes of Obote and Amin.
Hon. Frank Adome Lorika, the founder of the foundation, said its purpose is to help Ateker children and provide a platform for lobbying for employment opportunities.
He said the foundation will also serve as an umbrella body in service delivery by ensuring that resources allocated to Karamoja by the government are properly utilized.
“There are a lot of resources that the government has invested in Karamoja, but the challenge has been monitoring and implementation. This foundation will empower the locals to ensure they demand proper services,” he said.
Hon. Adome, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Moroto Municipality, said they are finalizing a few remaining requirements ahead of the launch.
John Lote, a graduate of Makerere University, said the establishment of the foundation was long overdue.
“They delayed establishing it. In fact, it should have been done three years ago, but nevertheless, we are very happy about it,” he said.
Mary Nakut, another youth from the region, said the foundation would be the first of its kind to be launched in the entire Karamoja region.
“I am even shivering with excitement. It should have been launched yesterday, but no problem—we are ready to receive it,” she said.
