Preparations for the first-ever Ateker Re-union Festival are in high gear in Soroti City, with over 10,000 dignitaries from all Ateker dialect-speaking countries, such as Ethiopia, South Sudan, Kenya, and Tanzania, expected to attend.
The Ateker community is said to have originated from present-day Djibouti several years ago. This group currently originates from the Nyangatom in Ethiopia, the Topotha of South Sudan, the Masai and the Turkana of Kenya, the Karimojong and Iteso of Uganda and Kenya, as well as the Masai of Tanzania.
These tribes speak similar dialects and understand each other; they also share similar cultural behaviours and ways of life.
The Ateker Re-Union Festival will start tomorrow (Thursday) November 27th to 29th in Soroti.
Paul Sande Emolot, the leader of the Iteso Cultural Union, confirmed the progress during a press briefing at his office, stating that significant strides have been made toward the successful execution of the event.
Emorimor emphasized that the festival would mark the first gathering of Ateker-speaking communities in 280 years.
“We have brought in all groups—youth, elders, and women—to dialogue and come up with a common communiqué that will guide us forward,” Emorimor stated.
In the lead-up to the festival, a cycling competition was held to engage the youth, and on Monday, the top cyclists from districts including Kalaki, Bukedea, Katakwi, Kumi, and Serere were awarded for their achievements.
Emorimor personally presented five brand-new motorcycles to the top five cyclists, while the second-place winner received 2 million Ugandan shillings, and the third-place finisher was awarded 1 million shillings.
Emorimor noted that such events are essential in motivating the youth, encouraging physical activity, and fostering regional unity.
He also praised the government’s support in making the festival a reality, highlighting its growing importance as the event draws closer.