Alur King, Acholi Paramount Chief call for unity, preservation of Luo history
He hailed the visit as a historic moment for both cultural groups.
Zombo: In a historic and symbolic meeting, the King of Alur Kingdom, His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III, hosted the Paramount Chief of Acholi, Rwoth David Onen Acana II, at the Alur Kingdom’s Palace, Kal Atyak Winam, in Atyak Sub-County, Zombo District.
The two cultural leaders convened to discuss key issues, including the Luo Convention held in Siaya County, Nyanza, Kenya, the establishment of its Uganda chapter, and mutual cooperation between their cultural institutions.
The meeting, which was marked by a light drizzle after a prolonged dry spell a sign of blessing in Alur culture was warmly welcomed by a vibrant display of cultural performances.
Traditional dancers, school children, and community members led a grand procession from Yamu Trading Center to the Alur Kingdom Palace, Kal Atyak Winam.
On Friday, March 7, 2027, the Acholi Paramount Chief and his delegation received a heroic welcome in Pakwach District, where they were escorted by the Alur Kingdom’s delegation and law enforcement officers led by Zombo District Police Commander Nelson Nahabwe.
The Alur and Acholi peoples share a common ancestry, tracing their lineage to Nyipir and Nyabongo, twin brothers from whom both tribes descend over 600 years ago. Today, their combined population spans millions.
Speaking at the event, His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III hailed the visit as a historic moment for both cultural groups.
“This visit marks the beginning of profound cooperation between us, the Alur and the Acholi. The rain today is a sign of blessing, a testament to the importance of this gathering.”
The Alur King also underscored the need to safeguard Luo history, emphasizing “We need to protect our history it is becoming mixed with myths. We must ensure future generations understand our true heritage.”
Meanwhile, Acholi Paramount Chief Rwoth David Onen Acana II expressed gratitude for the meeting, describing it as a long-awaited moment.
“This is a day I have long prayed for. We must acknowledge our shared history and embrace unity. Why should we live apart when we are one blood?”
He further called for greater cooperation among the Luo people, stressing that unity was essential for development and overcoming poverty.
“We must stand together to uplift our people. If we unite and work with one voice, we will push for better infrastructure, economic progress, and improved services for our people.”
During the discussions, the Acholi Paramount Chief highlighted pressing issues such as; poor road infrastructure in Alur Kingdom, disunity among Luo communities and lack of appreciation for shared cultural heritage
He urged the Luo people to set aside differences and advocate collectively for their rights and development.
“We still face widespread poverty. If we work together, we can change our situation. We must educate our children, utilize available resources, and push for better services.”
The Prime Minister of Alur Kingdom, Opar Lawrence Angala, described the visit as “historic and the best of the best”, emphasizing the need for unity that would earn the Luo descendants greater respect nationwide.
In response, Paramount Chief Acana II assured continued engagements and extended an invitation to the Alur King to visit Acholi Land in the near future.
Martin Okumu, the Deputy Prime Minister of Acholi Chiefdom and Minister of Finance, Planning, and Investment, commended the Alur Kingdom for their heroic welcome and reiterated the importance of stronger ties among Luo communities.
“Let’s build our relationship and ensure our people develop. Together, we are stronger.”
The meeting received backing from Zombo Assistant Resident District Commissioner Bruno Manano, who pledged government support and urged the cultural institutions to help resolve land disputes among their people.
Grace Freedom Kwiocwiny, a former Northern Uganda State Minister and current Senior Presidential Advisor, described the event as a historic reconciliation.
“Today, we have rewritten Luo history. This is the first meeting of its kind since Nyipir and Nyabongo parted ways over 500 years ago.”
She urged the two institutions to address the challenges surrounding the customary land tenure system, which has been a source of disputes.
Uganda’s Peace Envoy to Sudan, Major General Dick Olum, echoed calls for unity and stronger political lobbying to drive development.
“Disunity among politicians in Alur Land is a major setback. We must work together for the common good.”
Community reactions
Zombo District LCV Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, hailed the meeting as a game-changer for regional development.
“This historic gathering will promote harmony and shared ideas, leading to greater unity and economic growth.”
He also commended the Acholi Paramount Chief for maintaining good relations with Alur subjects residing in Acholi Land.
West Nile Queen, Patricia Jane Alobo, expressed optimism about the newfound collaboration.
“This is a significant milestone. We believe unity between these cultural institutions will help us push for better services such as infrastructure and education.”
The two cultural leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together, putting aside historical differences. They later held a closed-door meeting to discuss strategic development plans for their people.
This historic meeting is seen as a significant step in strengthening the deep-rooted genealogical, historical, and cultural ties between the Alur, Acholi, and other Luo-speaking communities.
Beyond cultural bonds, the event is expected to lay the foundation for socio-economic transformation and development across the region.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
