(Katakwi) – Iteso Paramount Chief Paul Sande Emolot is calling for a new census to accurately reflect the population of the Iteso people, disputing recent figures released by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).
Emorimor has voiced his disagreement with the census results, which show the Iteso as the fourth-largest ethnic group in Uganda with a population of 3.1 million. The recent census results indicate that the Baganda remain the largest ethnic group, followed by the Banyankole and Basoga. Emolot claimed that the Iteso, particularly Iteso women, are the most productive in the country and that their actual numbers are likely higher than reported.
During a recent celebration marking his second anniversary, Emorimor urged clan leaders to conduct a fresh national housing and population census to gather accurate data. “I’m requesting all the clan heads of Iteso in the country that our office will support them to count every member in their clan so that we get the real number of our ethnic group which we shall submit to UBOS,” he stated.
The anniversary event, held on October 22, 2024, at the Katakwi District Boma Grounds, drew over 20 kings and queens from various countries, including the USA, South Africa, and Ghana, as well as local leaders from several Ugandan regions. The celebrations featured traditional dances and cultural displays, showcasing the Iteso heritage.
In addition to addressing census concerns, Emorimor emphasized the importance of education within the Iteso community. He announced a partnership between the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) and Kumi School of Allied Health, offering an annual bursary of 500,000 Ugandan shillings for students pursuing courses in nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, and laboratory studies. Emorimor encouraged clan leaders to monitor students in primary and secondary schools and proposed a contribution of 1,000 shillings per Iteso family for an education fund aimed at reducing dropout rates.
Emorimor also spoke about the significance of promoting the Iteso culture and language, as well as improving economic conditions. He urged the community to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, specifically the four-acre model of farming to enhance food production and alleviate poverty.
The chief raised concerns about the impact of non-governmental organizations promoting the conversion of customary land tenure to freehold, warning that this could threaten the Iteso people’s land rights. He also cautioned against land disputes, which he believes hinder development.
In addressing health issues, Emorimor linked rising cervical cancer cases to early sexual activity and advised against excessive consumption of cooking oil to maintain a healthy lifestyle. He announced that the government is nearing the launch of construction for the Iteso Cultural Palace, commending the Vice President for her financial support of the anniversary event.
Richard Oseku, the Kibale County Member of Parliament, emphasized the need for unity among the Iteso people, especially those displaced due to conflicts with neighboring communities. He encouraged collaboration to ensure the Iteso community can progress and thrive.
During the celebrations, various kings and queens expressed their support for Emorimor and pledged to work together towards the development of the Teso region and Uganda as a whole.
Papa Paul Eganda, the President of the Ateker International Development Organization, shared that the visiting royalty aims to foster development in Teso through initiatives focused on job creation and infrastructure improvement.
The event also highlighted local cultural performances, including dances and traditional foods, contributing to the rich heritage of the Iteso people. Over 5,000 attendees from Uganda and Kenya, including other tribes, participated in the vibrant festivities.
Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot was installed as the Paramount Chief on October 22, 2022, following the passing of Augustine Osuban Lemukol, the first recognized chief of the Iteso, who died from COVID-19.
