President Yoweri Museveni has urged cultural leaders in Uganda to promote a culture of hard work and decency among their communities.

He emphasized the importance of fostering integrity to combat corruption and support peaceful coexistence.

“I call on cultural leaders to uphold our values of hard work and decency, which will elevate our nation and Africa instead of adopting shameful and prejudiced cultures from the West,” President Museveni stated.

He made these remarks in a speech delivered by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo during the Silver Jubilee Coronation anniversary of His Royal Highness Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor at Achilet Primary School in Tororo district. The celebrations were themed ‘Gender Parity: A Prerequisite to Sustainable Peace and Development in a Fast-Changing Environment.’

President Museveni noted that this jubilee marks the enduring legacy of the Padhola cultural institution, established under NRM leadership, celebrating years of hard work and achievements.

“We appreciate the dedication and commitment of everyone involved in strengthening the Kingdom, and I believe many more victories will come as you unite to foster community development,” he said.

He expressed gratitude for God’s guidance that has sustained His Royal Highness. “We celebrate the progress made and the collaboration between the Kingdom’s leadership and the government,” he added.

The president highlighted that the restoration of cultural institutions allows for their active participation in community development. He reaffirmed the NRM’s recognition of the role of cultural institutions and their commitment to support them as resources permit.

He also discussed the government’s efforts in poverty eradication and self-reliance through various programs like Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Emyooga, and the Parish Development Model (PDM), emphasizing that all Ugandans should have opportunities to earn an income.

“Poverty cannot be a reality for just a few Ugandans. Everyone must have the chance to earn money regularly to overcome deprivation,” he stated.

President Museveni called on stakeholders in cultural institutions to promote the NRM’s message of hard work and self-reliance and encouraged participation in youth skilling programs organized by the NRM and the government.

He congratulated Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor on his silver jubilee and prayed for his continued good health and wisdom. “On behalf of the NRM leadership and the nation, I congratulate you on 25 years of leadership since your enthronement,” he said, also recognizing the Japadhola people for this significant milestone.

His Royal Highness Kwar Adhola reflected on the past 25 years and the importance of fostering cordial relations among cultural institutions to build mutual trust and respect. He noted that this approach has led to his election as chair of the Council of Traditional Leaders in Africa, Uganda Chapter.

Kwar Adhola acknowledged the president’s guidance in economic and social development, which has enabled the Tieng Adhola cultural institution to raise awareness about social issues. He emphasized their commitment to environmental protection through tree planting and conservation efforts.

He expressed gratitude to President Museveni for appointing members of his community to various government positions.

Dr. Mathew Ochieng Owili, Deputy Governor of Kisumu County, led a delegation from Kenya, extending goodwill to Ugandans. “As the Luo of Kenya, we recognize our longstanding relationship and will continue to value it,” he said, urging peace and unity between the two countries.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including cultural leaders, clergy, and politicians, such as ministers Oboth Oboth, Hellen Asamo, NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, and NRM party electoral chairperson Tanga Odoi, who congratulated Kwar Adhola on his silver jubilee, noting that cultural institutions are key to spreading the NRM’s message of wealth creation at the family level.