Soroti, Uganda – H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni electrified the audience at the Ateker Reunion Festival with a powerful call to action: tribal identity must never supersede national unity.
“If you prioritize your tribe over your country, you become an enemy of your country. For your tribe to prosper, valuing your country must come first,” he declared to resounding applause.
The three-day festival, celebrated at Soroti Sports Ground, gathered Ateker communities from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Sudan, showcasing cultural diversity and unity.
The event was marked by vibrant performances, cultural exchanges, and thought-provoking speeches aimed at fostering harmony.
The festival’s significance was underscored by the presence of key leaders like Speaker of Kenya’s Parliament representing President William Ruto, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, emphasizing regional collaboration.
Uganda’s Vice President, H.E. Maj. Rtd. Jesca Alupo, and Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, added weight to the occasion.
Cultural chiefs from Lango, Kumam, Karamojong, Turkana, Teso, Japadhola and other tribes symbolized the shared heritage and future aspirations of the Ateker peoples.
Museveni’s address captured the festival’s spirit, urging attendees to look beyond local identities toward a united Uganda and Africa.
“Unity fuels progress. Let’s harness our diversity for the collective good of our nation and continent,” he said.
The President’s rallying cry served as a reminder that while tribal identity enriches culture, true progress requires a shared vision.
The festival concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening national unity and embracing Pan-African ideals.
