Apac, Uganda | The Paramount Chief of Lango, Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune has raised concern over the growing fragmentation of clans in the Lango sub-region, warning that the trend is contributing to an increase in sickle cell disease through marriages among closely related families.
Speaking during the installation of David Ojok Julu as the Clan Chief (Awitong) of Arak Ococ Puruiwor Clan at Atopi in Apac Municipality on Saturday, Odongo Okune said disputes over money and other disagreements had caused many clans to split, weakening traditional structures that once safeguarded lineage and family relationships.
He observed that as clans continue to divide, members often lose track of their ancestral connections, resulting in marriages between people who share common bloodlines or are closely related, thereby increasing the risk of inherited diseases such as sickle cell.
The cultural leader appealed to members of the various clans to embrace reconciliation and unity, emphasizing that harmony among clans is essential for preserving culture and promoting development in the sub-region.
Odongo Okune also urged the people of Lango to appreciate leaders from the region who have recently been appointed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to serve as presidential advisors, Cabinet ministers and state ministers. Although many residents had hoped for additional appointments, he said the region should remain grateful for the opportunities accorded to its sons and daughters.
He acknowledged the contributions of former ministers Betty Amongi Akena and Denis Hamson Obua, thanking them for their service to the nation and pledging continued collaboration with them in advancing the interests of Lango.
The Won-Nyaci further called for stronger cooperation between Tekwaro Lango, the Lango Parliamentary Group chaired by Patrick Ogwang Obura and other local leaders to address challenges facing the sub-region and promote socio-economic transformation.
On healthcare, he appealed to Government to upgrade Apac General Hospital by improving its infrastructure and increasing the number of specialists, noting that the facility has served the region for many years and deserves enhanced support.
Former Solicitor General and former Administrator General Francis Atoke urged the cultural institution to intensify efforts in mediation and conflict resolution, particularly in land disputes and cases involving family conflicts. Drawing from his long service in public administration, Atoke said peaceful settlement of disputes remains key to maintaining social harmony and protecting vulnerable groups.
Tekwaro Lango Speaker Willy Omodo Omodo highlighted achievements registered under the leadership of Odongo Okune, including the provision of bursaries to bright but needy students from disadvantaged families.
He also revealed that the cultural institution recently secured coffee seedlings through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), which have been distributed to farmers through both Tekwaro Lango and local government structures. Omodo added that arrangements were underway for the distribution of maize seeds through support secured from the Uganda Prisons Service following a request by the Won-Nyaci.
Meanwhile, Emeritus Rev. Geoffrey Ochan of Atopi Parish challenged the newly installed clan chief to provide visionary leadership and ensure that his subjects benefit from effective stewardship. He also cautioned clan leaders against polygamy, arguing that the practice contradicts Christian teachings and values, and urged them to promote responsible family life and moral leadership within their communities.
In his inaugural address, David Ojok Julu appealed to clan members to support his leadership through constructive advice and guidance. He said unity, respect, and collective responsibility would be crucial in strengthening the clan and restoring its dignity.